The Office of the Chinese Consulate-General in Houston, Texas of the United States issued a press statement on Monday that reminded Chinese tourists to observe travel safety measures while traveling this summer vacation in the southern U.S.
In its message, the Chinese Consulate-General emphasized the importance among Chinese tourists to monitor weather forecast before engaging any waterborne activities. This goes most especially to Chinese tourists who are planning for sea travels or excursions.
Its message also pointed out some other local security reminders to avoid any mishap during their travels. It encouraged Chinese tourists to make sure they have procured appropriate insurances for their travel.
This message of the Chinese Consulate-General in Houston was prompted by the sea mishap on Thursday in Phuket, Thailand wherein 42 were dead and 14 are still missing. Most of the passengers were Chinese.
Based on reports, vessels Phoenix and Serenita capsized on July 5 in Phuket. All the passengers onboard the Serenita were saved while there were many deaths and missing passengers in Phoenix. The bad weather condition was cited as the main cause of the sea mishap.
The Phuket officials had earlier warned the public for a severe weather, heavy rains and winds, and rough seas until Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the boat Phoenix had 105 people onboard wherein 93 of whom are tourists and 11 were crew members. Also onboard was one tourist guide.
Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong also said during a press conference that five passengers have confirmed saved. These victims were previously reported as missing. Three of them have already traveled back to China.
Proper charges are now filed by the Thai police against the boat captain of Phoenix. He is now charged with negligence resulting in deaths. The captain of Serenita is charged with negligence resulting in physical and mental damage to others.
Both captains are now detained at Phuket Island Prison.
