Bang Tao Lifeguards Equipped with Remote-Controlled Rescue Buoys

Lifeguards at Bang Tao and Surin beaches have received a new set of remotely operated rescue buoys as part of Phuket’s ongoing efforts to improve water safety. The equipment was officially handed over on July 27, two days after World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25.

The delivery forms part of the multi-agency Cherngtalay Smart Beach’Cop 4.0 initiative, which combines water safety measures with road safety improvements. The launch ceremony was attended by Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Cherng Talay Subdistrict Administrative Organization (OrBorTor) President Manot Panchalad, senior officers from Cherng Talay Police Station, and representatives of several government agencies, according to PR Phuket.

The newly introduced devices are officially classified as unmanned water rescue vehicles. In practice, they function as radio-controlled motorized rescue buoys that can quickly reach swimmers in distress, allowing them to stay afloat until lifeguards arrive. The technology also reduces the risk faced by rescuers when operating in strong waves or dangerous rip currents.

During the handover ceremony at Surin Beach, lifeguards demonstrated the new equipment in a simulated sea rescue exercise. The demonstration was observed by local officials, police representatives, and Thalang MP Orathai Kerdsap.

The latest initiative builds on a broader safety campaign launched in 2025, when Cherng Talay Police began working more closely with beach lifeguards to improve emergency response along Bang Tao Beach. At that time, local businesses provided an ATV for beach patrols, while lifeguards received additional rescue rings, life jackets, radios, and megaphones. Police played a key role in encouraging private businesses to support the project through donations.

The 2025 campaign was introduced following several fatal water accidents, including the widely reported drowning of Russian tourist Yulia Rodina, who was caught in a rip current. Several other drowning incidents were also recorded at Bang Tao Beach during the same season.

The road safety component of the Cherngtalay Smart Beach’Cop 4.0 program included the delivery of 500 flexible traffic bollards and cones to help regulate traffic and reduce speeding in high-risk areas. The Cherng Talay Subdistrict Administrative Organization allocated 300,000 baht for the purchase. The authority oversees the area where numerous beach clubs and restaurants south of Laguna Phuket are located.