Exploring the vital role of Denmark’s emergency response force.
By Simone Dalgaard, Silas Thrysøe, Camila Vivanco, Sejr Jensen, Niels Rasmussen, and Selma Mosquera
A Day in the Life of a Fire and Rescue Captain
Peter Hwan Lajgaard, a fire and rescue captain at the Danish Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) in Herning, gave us an exclusive insight into his daily responsibilities. No two days are ever the same, which is what makes this career so dynamic and fulfilling.
Peter begins his day in his office, handling meetings and administrative tasks. Paperwork is a crucial aspect of his job, occupying up to 80% of his time. However, his responsibilities extend far beyond the desk—he also leads training sessions for conscripts, focusing on everything from fire control and smoke diving to emergency rescue techniques.
On some days, Peter is on duty, meaning he must be ready to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice. The alarm typically sounds two to three times a week, and when it does, those on duty have just five minutes to gear up and board the emergency truck—whether they’re mid-meeting or even in the shower.
“If you want to rescue and help people rather than use weapons, then you should choose DEMA.”
– Peter Hwan Lajgaard
Understanding Denmark’s Military Service and DEMA’s Role
In Denmark, all men are required to enter a military service lottery upon turning 18. While many conscripts join the armed forces, a significant number choose to serve at DEMA, where they train to handle emergencies rather than combat situations. Currently, military service lasts nine months, but this may soon be extended to eleven months. There are also discussions about including women in mandatory service.
Throughout their service, conscripts must complete rigorous physical, mental, and skills-based tests every two to three weeks. Their education is tailored to their backgrounds—those with a vocational education focus more on practical training, while gymnasium graduates might engage in more theoretical coursework. By pairing individuals with different skill sets, DEMA fosters a well-rounded emergency response team.
What Does DEMA Actually Do?
DEMA serves as Denmark’s auxiliary emergency response force, providing crucial backup to first responders such as police, firefighters, and medical teams. They are trained to handle a wide range of crises, including:
- Search and rescue operations for missing persons and disaster victims.
- Hazardous material cleanup, including chemical spills.
- Flood and wildfire control to mitigate natural disasters.
- International relief efforts in disaster-stricken areas.
With the increasing demand for emergency preparedness, DEMA recently secured its own ministry, signaling a step forward after years of budget constraints. This development is expected to bring more funding, better resources, and expanded capabilities for the agency.
Meet Peter Hwan Lajgaard: A Life of Service
At 54 years old, Peter Hwan Lajgaard has dedicated over 25 years to serving Denmark through DEMA. He first joined as a conscript at 18 and has since operated in various fields within the agency. One of his proudest moments came during a rescue mission in Greenland, where he successfully led a complex diving operation—an achievement that earned him the Defense Minister’s Medal.
“That was the proudest moment of my career.”
– Peter Hwan Lajgaard
A Glimpse Into Training: Walking Through Fire
During our visit, we got a firsthand look at DEMA’s intensive training. One of the most striking experiences was walking through a burnt training facility, simulating real-life fire conditions. This building is used to prepare conscripts for the extreme environments they may encounter during emergencies.
Additionally, we witnessed the handling of advanced firefighting and rescue equipment. Some of the tools included:
- Water-powered cutters capable of slicing through metal.
- Hydraulic spreaders used for forced entry in rescue situations.
- Oxygen tanks that provide only 30 minutes of air during fire rescues.
The level of precision, training, and teamwork required for these operations left us with a newfound respect for the individuals serving in DEMA.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to DEMA in Herning provided a deeper understanding of the agency’s vital role in Denmark’s emergency preparedness. From search and rescue missions to disaster management, DEMA personnel are unsung heroes who work tirelessly to keep the country safe. With new governmental support and expanding roles, the future of DEMA looks brighter than ever.
A huge thank you to Peter Hwan Lajgaard and the entire team at DEMA for their hospitality and for sharing their invaluable insights with us.
🚒🔥 Denmark’s first line of defense isn’t always on the battlefield—it’s in the hands of those ready to respond to disasters at a moment’s notice.
