The training sessions, part of the ‘Generation 1’ project, began on Friday (June 14) and continue through today (June 16).
The workshop is being held at the Nai Yang Beach Resort & Spa and the beachfront area of Sirinat National Park.
Key figures attending include Panlop Prajong, a policy and planning analyst at MoTS Phuket, and Sanansin Chalermmuang, of the Phuket branch of the Tourism Council of Thailand.
Taking part in the training are lifeguards from both the public and private sectors, said an official report of the training.
"Phuket Province, as the chair of the ‘Andaman Tourism Development Zone’, has received budget allocations from the Office of the Permanent Secretary and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to enhance the safety potential of water tourism within the zone,” Mr Panlop explained.
The project aims to develop and increase the potential of personnel involved in tourism to effectively aid in water disaster rescues and provide basic life-saving assistance, he said.
“This will efficiently address fundamental issues and maximize effectiveness, ultimately promoting the tourism image of Phuket Province and the Andaman Tourism Development Zone,” he said.
The training covers surf safety and resuscitation and revival techniques, including how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator).
The training is being provided by a team of instructors from Phuket’s own Life Saving Thailand School. The school is accredited by the Ministry of Education. Teach and provide knowledge about water safety, both swimming pools and natural water sources.
The lifeguards are to undergo theoretical lessons and practical training in essential areas such as basic rescue skills, self-survival skills, floating and treading water, rip current escape techniques, basic life support information and swimming training in both pool and sea environments.
Kamonphan Chalermsakulrat, Deputy Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office, explained to the lifeguards the importance of tourism image and tourist safety.
“This comprehensive training program aims to equip lifeguard personnel with the necessary skills to ensure the safety of tourists, thereby enhancing the overall safety and attractiveness of water tourism in the Andaman region,” Ms Kamonphan said.
The training follows American expat James Everett du Bois being pulled out to sea by a strong rip current at Nai Harn Beach last Sunday (June 9).
His body was found washed ashore the next day.