FIREFIGHTERS have rescued two boys who fell into the river Tawe.

The teenagers were found clinging to a branch in the river at Trebanos before being led to safety by Pontardawe's swift water rescue team.

Fire crew used wading gear and throw lines to assist with the rescue.

The incident happened at 2.26pm on Tuesday, August 18, and police were also called to the scene.

The boys were later checked over by the ambulance service.

Group manager Karen Jones, head of community safety for mid and west Wales fire and rescue service said: “This incident highlights the dangers of playing of playing, paddling or swimming at unsupervised, un-lifeguarded, sites such as lakes, quarries reservoirs and rivers.

"The uneven banks of a river pose a high risk of falling into the open water.

"Strong currents can rapidly sweep people away, whilst the depth of the water can change and is unpredictable. Submerged objects may not be visible and can cause injury or trap you in the water.

"You could also suffer from cold water shock and this can be fatal. It removes heat from the body 32 times faster than cold air causing cold shock – gasping, cramps, and inhalation of water, heart attack, stroke and rapid drowning.

"There is also a lack of safety equipment at these sites, which increases the difficulty of a water rescue.

"Please respect the water.”