Öland is well guarded by the Sea Rescue Society, which has several stations on both the island and the mainland, but Tord Thuresson still thinks it is important to have lifeguards on site on the beach.
- If we have a drowning case here at Tofta, we will start working within 30 seconds.
We buy the time and we act quickly, he says.
Lifeguards have "police effect"
According to Tord Thuresson, the lifeguards' presence on Tofta beach on Gotland has reduced the damage and incident statistics.
- You think about when you see us.
It's a bit like when you see the police that "oh, do I have my belt on?".
Collaboration to succeed
To succeed in manning the beaches with lifeguards, collaboration between several different actors is required, Tord Thuresson explains.
- When it comes to the beaches, there are often many stakeholders: road associations, community associations, restaurants and municipalities.
You really need to get together and analyze what it is you need for something.