Picture courtesy of Kaoded.

 

A tourist narrowly escaped drowning after ignoring red flag warnings and venturing into rough waters at Chao Lao Beach in Chanthaburi. Quick action by lifeguards from a nearby resort saved the man’s life.

 

The dramatic moment was captured on video and shared on Facebook by user Kiw Wuttichai, who was visiting the beach with his family on the afternoon of 10 July. In the clip, a tourist is seen struggling against strong waves after being pulled out to sea. Fortunately, beach staff from Haad Sai Thong Resort were alerted in time and managed to pull the man to safety.

 

“This is rainy season, and red flags had already been placed along the beach to warn visitors not to swim,” Wuttichai wrote. “He was lucky. Not everyone is.”

 

In response to the incident, local officials and beachfront businesses have reinforced warnings to the public. Reporters visiting Chao Lao Beach observed red flags positioned along the shoreline by the Khlong Khut Subdistrict Administration and resort operators. However, some tourists, including children, were still seen playing in the water, disregarding the visible signs and rough conditions.

 

Ms. Apatsanan Phothong, Sales and Marketing Manager of the nearby Chaolao Cabana Resort and Mr. Chakree Matnama, the resort’s lifeguard, confirmed the incident. They stated that a tourist had been swept away by strong currents but was rescued in time by lifeguards from a neighbouring hotel.

 

“The waves dragged him offshore,” Chakree explained. “Luckily someone spotted him and shouted for help quickly. Our teams remain on constant alert and we always advise guests not to enter the water during dangerous conditions.”

 

Hotel staff have since redoubled efforts to inform and protect guests, with lifeguards on active duty throughout the day and safety equipment such as rescue rings positioned along the beach.

 

As the rainy season brings unpredictable and hazardous sea conditions, authorities are urging all visitors to heed red flag warnings and follow instructions from lifeguards.

 

“Please stay out of the water during this season,” Ms. Apatsanan added. “Your safety is our top priority. Don’t take unnecessary risks.”

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-07-13

 

 

 

 

 

We were there, not swimming, earlier that afternoon on Thursday. Low tide, small waves, may look safe but there's a reason for those red flags.

 

There were two drownings  in June, 8th (15yr) and 30th (33yr). 

 

Signs and red flags, often ignored by visitors who of course know better.