Police say you should take a selfie with your children as soon as you get to the beach on holiday - this is why

Schools out and holidaying is all many families are thinking about.

And whilst spending quality time with our loved ones may mean putting the phone away, there's actually a good reason why you shouldn't.

EssexLive reports that its local police force has asked those heading to the beach with their children to take a selfie of the whole family as soon as you arrive.

Essex Police say this is because in the event that they go missing, the authorities and those immediately available to help close by will have an up-to-date photo to work with.

A spokesperson for the force told the publication: "An up to date photo of your children, including what they are wearing that day, will be a massive help to the Coastguard and other emergency services if you report your children as missing.

Lots of families will be heading to the beach (Shared Content Unit)

"Children are notorious for wandering off and going on adventures without telling anyone.

"They are usually only missing for a very short time but seconds count.

"Keep these photos private and don't post them to social media as it highlights that your house may be empty but could also be used for malicious reasons at the beach."