Tourist Police call for Songkran volunteers

PHUKET CITY: Phuket Tourist Police have appealed for Swedish- and Russian-speaking volunteers as the force prepares for Songkran.

“There are now many Swedish and Russian tourists in Phuket, so we should be prepared to take care of them,” said Phuket Tourist Police Inspector Col Sathaporn Sangaunsuk.

“We have about 100 officers, including 18 foreigners,” he added.

With the holiday period looming, about 100 Tourist Police officers and volunteers attended a sea rescue training session at the Royal Phuket City Hotel on Saturday.

Volunteers learned basic first aid and techniques for rescuing tourists from drowning.

Part of Tourist Police duty during Songkran will be to assist lifeguards at Patong and Karon beaches.

“We have yet to schedule when volunteers will be at the beaches during Songkran. We will meet with [regular] police soon,” said Col Sathaporn.

To become a Phuket Tourist Police volunteer, call 076-254693.