Heroic 3-year-old boy saves best friend from downing after he falls into swimming pool

A heroic three-year-old has been caught on camera saving his best friend from drowning after the pair found themselves alone at a swimming pool.

The heart-pounding incident occurred at the brave boy's home in Itaperuna, a city northern Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

As reported by the Daily Mail, three-year-old Henrique - the son of the caretaker for the property - managed to sneak out of his home without his mother noticing, and quickly made his way to the pool.

Home security cameras then capture the moment young Henrique fell into the water while attempting to reach for an inflatable ring.

The hard-to-watch footage then shows Henrique struggling to keep his head about the water, and he thrashed around in the pool.

Thankfully, best friend Arthur de Oliveira, also three years old, was there to help.

You can see the video below (Warning - some viewers may find the footage upsetting):

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After looking around for an adult, Arthur realized he had to be the one to help, and reached out to Henrique. The astounding video then shows Arthur managing to drag Henrique out of the pool and to safety.

Arthur's mom, Poliana Console de Oliveira, later shared the footage to Facebook, along with the caption (translated by the Mail): "This video serves as an alert for those who have a pool at home and children.

"Thank God the ending is happy, because God sent the land under my care, my son, my little Arthur, a true hero! Real life hero, my pride.:

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Poliana continued: "Arthur saved his friend's life.

"It was 30 seconds of carelessness, the caretaker's son left the house alone, without telling his mother. Don't neglect! In my heart I just have gratitude for the life of Arthur's friend and I am proud of my son's courageous, quick and loving attitude."

Arthur's heroic actions also drew the attention of the local Itaperuna Military Police department.

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As recognition for his bravery, Arthur - who dreams of one day becoming a police officer - received a basket with sweets and a brand new basketball.

He will certainly enjoy playing with the ball at home considering the fact that his family is continuing to quarantine as a result of his asthma and respiratory issues.

The youngster was awarded a certificate and a trophy that said, "From a hero to a hero".

Speaking of his remarkable actions, one officer said in a tribute video: "A souvenir because you are an instrument of God, a real hero. The world needs heroes like you."

Absolutely true! Well done, Arthur! We're sure you'll make a wonderful officer one day!