Trygfonden suspends lifeguard services at eroding Tversted Strand in Denmark

Thousands of beachgoers have enjoyed the sand and sea at Tversted Strand in North Jutland over the years. Since 2015, they have benefited from the presence of lifeguards provided by Trygfonden. However, Tversted Strand is currently experiencing significant erosion, making it the most shrinking beach in Denmark. Due to this deterioration, the area is becoming too narrow, leading to a decline in the number of visitors.

As a result, Trygfonden has decided to suspend its cooperation with Hjørring Municipality regarding lifeguards and lifeguard towers. “If there is no beach, it is also difficult to attract bathers, and we believe that there is no need for lifeguards this year,” stated Anders Myrhøj, the coastal lifeguard chief at Trygfonden.

This decision has disappointed locals like Hans Olesen, who had a near-drowning experience four years ago but was saved by a Trygfonden lifeguard. Olesen recalls the terrifying moment when he struggled against the current while swimming. “If they hadn’t arrived, I probably would have drowned,” he said.

Despite fewer lifeguards, beachgoers are still visiting Tversted Strand, but the absence of lifeguards raises safety concerns. “It feels unsafe without anyone to pull us in. I definitely don’t want to swim without a lifeguard tower,” Olesen added.

Business owners are also worried. Birthe Østergaard, president of the Tversted Citizens and Tourist Association, noted that the absence of lifeguards impacts the local tourism industry. The narrower beach, coupled with fewer safety measures, discourages visitors.

Looking ahead, discussions are planned for the autumn between Trygfonden’s coastal lifeguards and Hjørring Municipality to evaluate the future of lifeguard services at Tversted Strand next summer.