Dane drowns at Nai Harn

NAI HARN: A 62-year-old Dane who was pulled from the sea unconscious died as rescuers tried to resuscitate him on Nai Harn beach this morning. Police named him as Helge Andreasen, a retiree who lived in Happy Home Village. Mr Andreasen’s death was the latest in a series of drownings and narrow escapes this monsoon season, which has increased pressure for improved warnings and safety on Phuket’s beaches. Pol Maj Sanae Panmee, of Chalong Police Station, said police heard there was a foreigner in trouble off Nai Harn about 7:30 am. “When we arrived he was still in the sea and we rescued him in a speedboat,” Maj Sanae said. “The waves were very strong and by the time we reached him, he was unconscious.” Rescuers administered CPR on the shore but failed to revive him. Maj Sanae added, “He was swimming alone in the morning and he may have been tired. “People should avoid swimming at this time of the year because the waves are very strong. We do have beach guards from Rawai Tambon Administration Organization, but they usually do not start at the beach until 9 am.” The Danish Embassy has been contacted and Mr Andreasen’s body is at Wachira Phuket Hospital.