FIREFIGHTERS have warned of the dangers of getting into rivers after four teenagers had to be rescued from the Derwent in Derby.
The youths had become stranded just below a weir close to Raynesway.
The two boys and two girls had paddled their way across but the fast-flowing current prevented them from getting back.
A passing walker and his son saw the group and phoned for help.
More than 20 members of the emergency services took part in the rescue at about 6.20pm yesterday.
The incident prompted the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service to advise people to stay clear of rivers.
Watch manager at Kingsway fire station Steve Wall said: "This is the first nice day of the year and we have been called out.
"People think it's a good idea to get into the water because it is nice and hot, only to discover that the water is very cold.
"The current can also be very strong, particularly around weirs where the water is funnelled."
A total of 18 firefighters attended the scene, with two appliances from the Kingsway station and one from Nottingham Road, along with a special water rescue truck which was mobilised from Matlock. Police and paramedics were also at the scene.
Mr Wall said: "The fire service received the call at around 6pm.
"By the time we arrived, one of the boys had managed to make it to the bank himself but three of the others were on the other side of the river.
"They were dressed in just T-shirts and shorts and they were obviously cold and shivering."
Once firefighters had organised their equipment, one was sent out across the water to rescue the first of the teenagers.
Mr Wall said: "A member of my team secured the teenager to themselves and was then pulled back across the water by others on the shore.
"This happened with the second teenager before the last person was rescued using an inflatable sled."
One of the boys, a 14-year-old who lives in the local area, told how the group ended up in the water.
He said: "We decided to go in but then I came out because I thought it was stupid.
"Then we went back in and managed to make it across to some stones near the other side.
"Two of them went further but got stuck so me and the other girl went to try and help them but we also got stuck.
"We shouted across and eventually this man and his little lad saw us and phoned the police.
"We were stood in mud with nettles and thorns all around us."
The boy's mother had run from her home to the site of the incident.
She said: "I just ran up. I don't know if I even locked the door. He had told me he was going to the park so I was in complete shock. I was so worried when I saw all the ambulances and fire engines.
"I just want to say thank you to all the emergency services who helped. They have been fantastic.
"I would also tell parents to make sure they tell their kids about the dangers of going in water."
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service warned that rivers can be colder than expected, with hidden currents and fast-flowing sections, especially near locks and weirs. There may also be hidden debris under the surface that can trap, snag or cut.
They advise that if you see someone in danger seek help or call 999 but do not get into the water yourself.
