BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thai police warned ahead of the Songkran festival against risky behaviour and urged revellers to follow clear rules or face heavy fines and possible jail.
Police appeal for safer water fights
Police used the run-up to the Thai New Year festival to remind participants to act responsibly during water fights and on the streets. The focus, they said, was on safety and maintaining public order, as well as preventing accidents.
Authorities stressed that violations would not be dismissed as mere fun. Instead, they warned that offenders could face formal punishment, including financial penalties and imprisonment.
“3 Do 5 Don’t” campaign announced
The police pointed to a set of rules under the motto “3 Do 5 Don’t” as guidance for those taking part in the festivities. The framework was designed to reduce typical conflicts and dangerous situations during the holiday period.
Officers said the recommendations were intended to give both locals and visitors a clear idea of what behaviour was acceptable. They linked the campaign directly to efforts to keep the festival environment orderly and safe.
“3 Do”: what revellers should do
The first recommendation urged consideration in water play and respect for consent. Before splashing others, it should be clear that the person actually wished to take part, for example through suitable clothing or the absence of electronic devices.
Without such consent, water play could be perceived as intrusive. Participants were therefore asked to show restraint in crowded or mixed groups.
A second point focused on protecting valuables in dense crowds. Police recommended using waterproof, fully sealable bags and warned against wearing them loosely around the neck, as thieves could cut the strap easily.
They also called for attention to road safety and personal responsibility, especially before longer trips. Both vehicles and drivers should be in a fit condition, with regular breaks taken when tired to reduce accident risks during the so‑called “seven dangerous days”.
“5 Don’t”: what is off limits
High-pressure water guns were explicitly banned. The strong jet could cause serious injuries, particularly to the eyes, leading authorities to classify such devices as a safety risk.
Police underlined that these types of water guns were not allowed at festival venues or on public streets during the celebrations. Enforcement was presented as part of wider efforts to prevent avoidable harm.
Another clear prohibition targeted sexual harassment, which remains a criminal offence. This included touching another person without consent or performing indecent acts.
According to Section 278 of the Criminal Code, such violations could be punished with prison terms of up to ten years or fines of up to 200,000 baht. Authorities stressed that these penalties applied regardless of the festive setting.
Drinking alcohol while travelling in a vehicle was also banned for both drivers and passengers. The aim was to improve road safety and reduce risks caused by distraction or impaired reactions.
Offenders faced possible prison sentences of up to six months or fines of up to 10,000 baht. Police linked these sanctions directly to efforts to cut the high accident figures typically seen during Songkran.
Protection of traffic and crowd safety
Officers warned that splashing water on moving vehicles at high speed could have severe consequences. Sudden loss of visibility might lead to serious crashes, including fatal incidents.
If someone died as a result, the act could be treated as negligent homicide under Section 291, carrying prison sentences of up to ten years. Police framed such behaviour as a dangerous interference with road traffic, not a harmless prank.
Carrying weapons or realistic imitations in festival areas was likewise prohibited. Authorities cited the heightened risk of escalation in tightly packed crowds, where even minor disputes could quickly spiral out of control.
The bans were described as preventive measures intended to protect visitors and avoid disputes and potential violence from the outset. Officials linked them to an overall strategy of risk minimisation during the mass event.
How to report incidents
Police urged the public to report inappropriate behaviour, threats or damage caused by criminal acts. People could contact the emergency hotline 191 or send tips via the Royal Thai Police Hotline 1599, which operates around the clock.
In medical emergencies or road accidents, callers were advised to reach the 1669 hotline for rapid assistance. The guidance was addressed to both residents and tourists joining the water battles in many cities.
Officials noted that misconduct could escalate quickly in dense crowds. They appealed to bystanders to act early by informing the authorities when they witnessed dangerous or abusive behaviour.
Why authorities issued the warning
Songkran traditionally drew large numbers of people onto streets and public squares, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and confrontations. Situations where traffic and festivities overlapped were described as particularly problematic.
In response, police relied on prevention through clear public messages and visible checks. Their aim was to stop dangerous conduct at an early stage rather than respond only after incidents occurred.
The warning emphasised that violations could be punished “severely”. Both fines and prison terms were listed as possible outcomes, depending on the nature of the offence and the circumstances in each case.
Authorities underlined that the exact penalty in Thailand generally depended on individual factors. However, they said the message was clear: anyone crossing legal boundaries during the festival should expect consequences.
Songkran between tradition and mass event
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and is widely celebrated with water as a symbol of cleansing. In many regions, the custom has evolved into large-scale street festivals.
With growing visitor numbers, the demands on safety and order have also increased. As a result, authorities have placed rules and enforcement measures at the forefront every year.
Police portrayed their current campaign as part of balancing tradition with the realities of a modern mass event. They maintained that strict guidelines were necessary to ensure that celebrations could continue without preventable harm.