PHUKET — A quick-thinking lifeguard at Kata Beach sprang into action on Friday, rescuing two French children who were swept away by a powerful rip current. The dramatic incident unfolded despite clear warning flags posted along the shore, alerting swimmers to hazardous ocean conditions.

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The 12-year-old boy and girl had entered the water unsupervised while their parents relaxed on the beach. As the strong current pulled them farther from shore, on-duty lifeguard Arm spotted their distress. Without hesitation, he and a colleague grabbed surfboards and paddled out, reaching the struggling children just in time.

A lifeguard at Kata Beach in Phuket used a surfboard to rescue two French children after they were swept out to sea by a strong rip current and could not swim back to shore.

Red flags were posted at Kata Beach warning people to stay out of the water

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A video of the rescue, shared on Facebook by user คนลาฝัน ผมมันจน.เลยต้องสุ้, captured the lifeguard’s swift response. The children were safely brought back to shore, where their grateful parents thanked the rescuers and offered a monetary reward for their efforts.

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Following the incident, beach officials reinforced safety protocols with the family, explaining the significance of red warning flags and other signage designed to prevent such emergencies. Authorities reminded visitors to always heed lifeguard warnings and supervise children closely near the water.

-Thailand News (TN)