The 24-hour rescue operations were carried out by lifeguards from Patong Municipality under the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Division, working alongside volunteers from the Patong Beach Protection unit of the Patong Development Foundation.
The statistics were published in a report posted online on Feb 22. The figures for February have yet to be released.
Day shift: 55 routine incidents, 17 moderate injuries
During daytime operations, lifeguards handled 55 routine cases and 17 moderate injury cases.
Marine animal encounters accounted for 13 first-aid cases, including jellyfish stings and sea urchin injuries. One tourist who stepped on a sea urchin requested hospital treatment.
Five people were treated for cuts caused by sharp objects or shells in the sea, while 13 people required first aid for injuries sustained on the beach. One person suffered a laceration after slipping and falling and was transported to hospital.
Water sports accidents were among the most significant contributors to injuries. Ten cases were recorded involving activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing and jet surfing, with seven people requiring ambulance transport to Patong Hospital.
Six people were treated for fainting or dizziness, with one suffering weakness and sent to hospital.
Lifeguards also responded to a capsized boat incident at sea, assisted nine people on shore for various issues including getting lost or causing disturbances, and returned five lost items to tourists.
One theft case was reported and handed over to officers at Patong Police Station for further legal action.
In total, 16 people were transported to hospital during daytime operations.
Night shift: Bangla area calls dominate
Night shift teams recorded 30 routine cases and 20 moderate cases, again with no serious injuries or deaths.
Four tourists received first aid, while two were sent to hospital after fainting or experiencing medical conditions.
One swimmer unable to return to shore was safely brought back by boat.
Intoxication-related incidents were common, with six cases involving individuals unable to control themselves due to alcohol consumption.
Authorities issued nine warnings related to fireworks and sky lanterns, with two individuals reportedly resisting officials. Two separate incidents involved tourists attempting to swim at night despite warnings, with one case requiring police intervention.
Four cases involved theft, fighting or assault, with one suspect handed over to police.
The busiest area at night was the beach area near Bangla Rd, where lifeguards assisted in 28 incidents, including intoxicated tourists, disputes and requests for medical support. Ten people from incidents in the Bangla area were transported to hospital.
Two individuals in total were handed over to police during night operations.
Strong coordination credited
Lifeguards credited close coordination with Patong Police Station, Kathu District officials, rescue volunteers and medical staff at Patong Hospital for ensuring rapid response and maintaining tourist safety.
Despite the high number of incidents throughout January, officials confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, and no cases were classified as life-threatening.
Also during the month, Patong lifeguards continued their youth surf safety and awarness programme.
Authorities continue to urge tourists to follow lifeguard instructions, avoid swimming at night, take caution when engaging in water sports, and seek assistance immediately if feeling unwell.


