Steps taken to ensure Loy Krathong celebrations are safe this year

The measures focus on preventing potential dangers, and they include the following:

• Administration chiefs of all 50 Bangkok districts have been tasked with ensuring safety at all waterfronts, piers and locations of amusement rides and deploy officials to facilitate traffic.

• People will be prohibited from launching rockets, fireworks or floating lanterns without prior permission. Violators can face up to three years in jail and/or fines of up to 60,000 baht. Fires can be reported by calling the 199 hotline (Rama 199 Radio Centre).

• Manufacturers and distributors of fireworks, floating lanterns and similar items are not allowed to produce, order, import or sell these items without prior approval. Violators may face up to one month in prison and/or fines of up to 1,000 baht.

• Entertainment venue operators and event organisers are expected to ensure safety and equip their venues with life-saving equipment. Entrances and exits must be clearly specified to reduce congestion, and close collaboration with district authorities is required.

• Parents are urged to take extra precautions with their children to prevent accidents like drowning or getting lost. Revellers are also advised to exercise caution when floating krathongs, and encouraged to limit the consumption of alcohol to prevent drownings and road accidents. People can call the 1669 Erawan Centre hotline in case of accidents.