Patong Baywatch resumes night patrols, enhancing safety at popular Thai beach
Patong Surf Life Saving has re-initiated the nighttime beach patrols to boost the safety measures at Patong Beach. Despite the details of the resumption of nighttime patrols still being under wraps by Patong Municipality and the Patong Development Fund, the initiative named Patong Baywatch has been put back into action.
The precise number of night watchmen designated for the beach remains unconfirmed. However, the resumed patrols aim to cover extensive areas of the beach and stay prepared with the necessary equipment for surf rescues.
Last Wednesday, a tourist was safely brought back to the shore by a Patong Baywatch patrol around 9pm, revealed announced Patong Surf Life Saving.
“Patong Municipality has deployed lifeguards who are on duty from dusk till dawn, bridging the gap between the main rescue shifts.”
The organisation further explained that now, certain portions of the beach have lifeguards on duty both during the day and night, assuring 24-hour surveillance. This is in collaboration with the volunteer beach patrol — Patong Baywatch service by the Patong Development Foundation.
Back in March, after the peak tourism season, Patong Surf Life Saving elucidated the primary goals of the night patrols.
The Patong Baywatch initiative is the creation and funding project of the Patong Development Foundation. The foundation was established by local businessperson Preechavude ‘Prab’ Keesin, proprietor of the Pisona group of firms and son of the late Patong Mayor Pian Keesin, who passed away in 2014.
Sanakorn Keesin, one of Prab Keesin’s siblings, is currently the Deputy Mayor of Patong, serving under Patong Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri. Lalita Maneesri is the other Deputy Mayor of Patong.
Meanwhile, Phuket’s fight against crime continues. Last week a tuk tuk driver from Patong was apprehended by police and charged with possession of 43 methamphetamine pills, known locally as Yaba, and several weapons, including an axe.
The 30 year old driver, was arrested on Monday night, October 16, at a checkpoint in front of Patong Hospital. The incident was reported by the Patong Police late the following day. Read more about the story HERE.
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