Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

 

In a dramatic turn of events off Phuket’s Bang Tao-Surin Beach, two lifeguards executed a daring jet ski rescue on Wednesday, saving an unconscious tourist from a perilous rip current.

 

Captured in dramatic footage shared by Facebook user Witsarut Saman, the video shows the lifeguards braving the surf to reach the distressed swimmer. “May he be safe,” Saman wrote, tagging the video with #ThankYouBangTaoSurinLifeguards. The post quickly gained online attention, with widespread praise for the lifeguards’ swift action.

 

The tourist, whose identity remains unknown, was found floating face down in the sea on August 6. Lifeguards hauled him onto the jet ski and rushed him to shore, where CPR was initiated immediately. Staff from a local hotel and concerned onlookers swiftly assisted, while emergency services were alerted.

 

Paramedics transported the individual to Thalang Hospital. His current condition and identity are yet to be confirmed, as no identification documents have been recovered.

 

The incident has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Comments ranged from hopeful messages of recovery to criticisms of risky behaviours:

“Stay safe.”

 

“Please listen to warnings, they're there to save lives.”

 

 

The rescue highlights ongoing concerns about Phuket's dangerous undercurrents during the southwest monsoon season. Red flags, indicating hazardous swimming conditions, are currently in place on many of the island’s beaches.

 

A spokesperson for Phuket lifeguards emphasised the unpredictability of the conditions, warning:

 

“Even strong swimmers can be caught unaware. Please heed the warnings—they’re there for your safety.”

 

Adding to the beach safety advisories, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has forecasted strong winds and high seas along the Andaman coast, increasing the danger for swimmers and small boats in the area.

 

Officials strongly advise beachgoers to swim only in designated zones, avoid the water when red flags are displayed, and never underestimate the power of rip currents, underscoring the message that vigilance saves lives.

 

As Phuket continues to draw tourists despite the seasonal dangers, the vigilance of lifeguards and adherence to safety protocols remain crucial in preventing further incidents.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-08

 

Nicely done.

I have saved 2 swimmers in my life.  One at night in a rip current in Koh Samui!

29 minutes ago, Showtime said:

I have saved 2 swimmers in my life.  One at night in a rip current in Koh Samui!

 

29 minutes ago, Showtime said:

I have saved 2 swimmers in my life.  One at night in a rip current in Koh Samui!

 

Good on you.

Rip current is quite dangerius, isn't it?

It is said to sweep away the swimmer even from the shallow water...

 

 

42 minutes ago, black tabby12345 said:

 

 

Good on you.

Rip current is quite dangerius, isn't it?

It is said to sweep away the swimmer even from the shallow water...

 

 

As an Aussie we are taught to recognise rips, but also, if caught in one, do not panic, you should swim across the rip, or tread water, raise your arm to attract attention, the rip will take you out but then in a circular motion carry you back towards the shore.

8 hours ago, Aussie999 said:

As an Aussie we are taught to recognise rips, but also, if caught in one, do not panic, you should swim across the rip, or tread water, raise your arm to attract attention, the rip will take you out but then in a circular motion carry you back towards the shore.

 

Is the call for help at surf Cooeee?

Something I heard in 1980s.

9 hours ago, black tabby12345 said:

 

Is the call for help at surf Cooeee?

Something I heard in 1980s.

Not suitable if treading water., you're likely to sink, you use both hands as a megaphone.

Cooee...is a shout to attract attention, or to indicate one's own location