Police increase patrols in Copenhagen ahead of J-Day festivities in Denmark

As J-Day approaches, marking the sale of Christmas brews, several police departments across Denmark are ramping up their staffing. In Copenhagen, police spokesperson Henrik Svejstrup announced that patrols will be active in major areas, including a foot patrol around the iconic Strøget pedestrian street.

A mobile treatment station will also be set up at Regnbuepladsen near City Hall for individuals who may have overindulged or experienced minor injuries. “If someone has had too much to drink or falls and scrapes their knee, they can get help there,” Svejstrup stated.

Extra officers will also be on duty in other regions, including South East Jutland and Mid and West Zealand. Nordsjælland Police emphasized that patrol visibility will increase due to the festivities, with patrols monitoring bars and restaurants in busy areas.

Additionally, By & Havn, the development and operations company responsible for Copenhagen’s harbor, is urging the public to stay away from the water’s edge if they’ve been drinking. CEO Anne Skovbro highlighted the importance of respecting the harbor’s dangers, especially during the dark winter months when the water is cold.

A press release from By & Havn referenced statistics from Trygfonden, indicating that 13 people drowned in Danish harbors in 2022, with 93% of those victims being male. Alcohol and/or drugs were factors in approximately 55% of drowning incidents in Danish harbors and canals from 2001 to 2022.

In line with tradition, breweries will launch their Christmas beers this Friday at 20:59.