OCMD beach patrol respond to 2k lost/missing children reports

On average, the Ocean City Beach Patrol can assist over 100 lost and missing children on a busy July weekend. Overall, we’re told that can amount to up to 2,000 cases every summer.

Captain Butch Arbin tells 47 ABC, a four-year-old child once wandered for eight miles. We’re told she walked from 140th Street and into Delaware.

Captain Arbin says dialing 911 for a missing child may be your first thought but on the beach, he says your best bet is to tell a lifeguard. We’re told it typically only takes the OCMD Beach Patrol about five minutes to locate a missing child, but he is reminding beach-goers to always stay vigilant.

Aside from watching over their little ones to ensure they do not wander, Captain Arbin says one of the first things parents or guardians should do is introduce their family to lifeguards.

“That way there’s a connection there.” He says. “The guards have been trained to do safety messages, to talk to families and that way if a child immediately becomes disoriented, they look up and they see a white standing, they go to the guard.”

For the adults, we’re told communication is key. If you’re going to take a dip in the water and need someone to watch your child, make sure someone in your group knows.

Captain Arbin say seeking help when you need it immediately, along with other tips, has contributed to the beach patrol’s 100 percent return for lost and missing children.

“For the adults, don’t wait an hour to report a missing child which happens. You know, how long has he been missing? Oh an hour. Tell us right away because the sooner we know…then he hasn’t wandered so far.” He says.

Captain Arbin says these are important tips that should be considered before hitting the beach.