Lifeguards spend too much time searching for lost children while parents use phones

Danish coastal lifeguards are urging parents to keep a closer watch on their children at the beach, according to a statement from TrygFonden. The call comes after a busy start to the season, with lifeguards frequently diverting time to locate missing children.

Torben Rehder, a lifeguard with over 20 years of experience on Jutland’s beaches, described the issue as a major problem. “Every year, we see children separated from their parents, and the consequences can be serious. You never know how it will turn out, and after searching for a long time, the worry becomes overwhelming—not just for us, but especially for the parents,” he said.

Last week alone, lifeguards across Denmark handled multiple cases of lost children, including one life-threatening incident. Anders Myrhøj, head of TrygFonden’s coastal lifeguard service, stressed that even strong swimmers can quickly face danger. He advised parents and grandparents to put down their phones and join the children in the water instead.

TrygFonden reiterated its fifth bathing rule: “Never let children out of your sight.” The full list of safety guidelines includes learning to swim, never swimming alone, assessing wind and water conditions, familiarising oneself with the beach, and maintaining constant supervision of children.