Tennessee firefighters rescued two teens who were hanging on to tree branches after their kayak overturned in a fast-moving river Sunday.
The two 17-year-old boys had set out on a kayak on Stones River at the Thompson Lane Trailhead in Murfreesboro at about 1:45 p.m., according to an online update from Murfreesboro Fire Rescue. Less than 30 seconds in, the boat flipped and tossed the teens into the water's swift current
Both teens were able to grab hold of tree branches in the water and soon began shouting for help. A passer-by heard the boys and immediately called 9-1-1.
Murfreesboro Fire Rescue deployed its Swift Water Rescue Team, and the members were able to reach the stranded teens and pull them from the river. The teens, who weren't wearing life jackets, were evaluated at the scene and did not need to be taken to the hospital, according to the department.
"After a heavy rain, water can be swift and not safe,” Battalion Chief Blake Insell said in a statement. “If you are enjoying waterways, always wear a lifejacket; it could mean the difference between life and death."
