PHUKET, Thailand – Tourist Police have stepped up safety measures at Patong Beach, bringing together police officers, tourist police volunteers and lifeguards to reassure visitors and strengthen emergency response for tourists. The operation was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongsiam Meekhantong, deputy chief of the Tourist Police Bureau, who presided over a patrol briefing at Patong Beach on August 14. The operation was joined by senior Tourist Police officers, Patong Police Station personnel, tourist police volunteers and Patong Beach lifeguards.
Pongsayam outlined measures to strengthen security and assistance for tourists, with the aim of increasing confidence among both Thai and foreign visitors travelling in Phuket. Tourist Police also promoted the Thailand Tourist Police application and the Tourist Police emergency hotline 1155, encouraging visitors to contact authorities if they require assistance. The team subsequently worked with representatives from the National Institute for Emergency Medicine to inspect operations at Patong Beach and receive an update from lifeguards on the situation and procedures for protecting tourists.
Particular attention was given to water emergencies and the procedures used to assist people who encounter difficulties in the sea. Officials also met and spoke with Thai and foreign tourists at the beach, providing safety information and explaining prohibited activities and behaviour that could put visitors at risk.
The joint operation is part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between tourism police, local authorities, emergency medical agencies and lifeguards, particularly at busy tourist beaches where water-related incidents can pose a significant risk. Officials said maintaining a visible presence and providing visitors with clear safety information would help create greater confidence while ensuring tourists know where to seek assistance in an emergency.
