TWO EVENTS are coming up that will help to reduce the number of drownings on Phuket.

They are the Phuket Surf Lifesaving Carnival on September 11 and the Rip Curl Grom Search Day on August 21.

It's the third surf lifesaving carnival for Phuket, and it always produces some unusual sights on the sands fronting Loma Park in Patong.

This is the place where the first steps are being taken to encourage a change in awareness about water safety, and to teach people how to rescue others from the seas around Phuket.

It's easy to see that Phuket needs lifeguards on its popular beaches, and one long-term answer to having safer beaches is to teach young people how to enjoy the beach, its activities and the Australian-Californian culture of keeping people safe.

Swimming and surfing both encourage that culture, and if Phuket people eventually grow to enjoy their beaches the same way that Australians and Californians have, there will be fewer disasters at Phuket beaches.

With surfing on the rise, the first Rip Curl Grom Search Day at Nai Harn on August 21 should see youngsters on boards trying their skills in the waves.

''Each day begins with a morning registration at 7am and beach clean-up and ocean awareness program with Phuket water safety specialist Steven A. Martin. There will be a free surf clinic (with boards supplied by Nautilus Surf Shop) and a free lunch of healthy salads, sandwiches and fruit juice catered by DaVinci's Restaurant. The surf contest will offer surf heats and finals for the boys and girls of varying divisions resulting in a variety of awards, prizes, and a sunset BBQ beach party - What could be better!''

Registration for the Phuket lifesaving carnival begins at 8.30am. Those who want more details should call 081 7974775.