Patong Beach Introduces Safety Sandbox for Tourists, Surf’s Up

Phuket’s renowned Patong Beach recently hosted an engaging safety demonstration for the Minister of Health, launch of Safety Sandbox for Tourists initiative.

The demonstration showcased surf life-saving techniques and proper medical responses to common injuries, aiming to assure tourists of a secure vacation experience in Phuket as Patong Beach Introduces Safety Sandbox.

During the event, Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew witnessed a lifelike rescue demonstration, where a tourist was swiftly rescued from the water and revived on the sand. This demonstration highlighted the island’s commitment to safety.

Additionally, Minister Cholnan observed the appropriate medical response to injuries from a parasail ride, emphasizing the importance of prompt and efficient medical assistance, especially in contrast to recent incidents.

Following the safety demonstrations, Minister Cholnan engaged with Patong Beach lifeguards and local health workers, fostering collaboration and communication in ensuring tourist safety. He also interacted with parasail and jet-ski operators, recognizing their role in ensuring safety protocols.

Moreover, he observed a woman receiving an influenza vaccine as part of the Ministry of Health’s campaign, offering free inoculation against four strains of influenza to tourism industry workers in Phuket.

Subsequently, Minister Cholnan proceeded to Dragon Plaza at Queen Sirikit Park to officially inaugurate the Phuket Island Safety Sandbox campaign.

This significant event was attended by several senior officials, including Opas Karikawinpong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, and Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn, Director General of the Department of Disease Control.

In attendance at the event were Phuket’s local representatives, led by Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO).

Notable figures such as Niti Hetanurak, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, Darinda Rosa, Acting Director of the Disease Prevention and Control Region 11 Office in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, and Kusak Kukiattikoon, Chief of the Phuket Public Health Office (PPHO), also graced the occasion.

The Safety Sandbox initiative was a focal point of discussions during the event. Cholnan elaborated that Phuket had been selected as the pioneer province to implement this initiative. The island’s goal is to become a

“disease and health hazard-free tourist city,”

aimed at instilling confidence among tourists. As part of this endeavor, hotels will be mandated to adhere to green health, hygiene, and safety standards.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is actively enhancing local community hospitals and implementing a One Region One Sky Doctor (OROS) service.

During the proceedings at Queen Sirikit Park, Cholnan recognized the efforts of 18 local government organizations and three District Offices by awarding them certificates for their collaborative efforts in making Phuket the first rabies-free province in the country.

An exhibition was also held to showcase the commendable work carried out by officials, including the Phuket Livestock Office and the Soi Dog Foundation, in achieving this significant milestone.

To conclude the day, Cholnan and his delegation took a leisurely stroll through the Lard Yai Walking Street market in the Phuket Old Town area, reflecting on the achievements and initiatives discussed during the event.