An anti-alcohol group on Wednesday launched a three-part campaign urging Loy Kratong revellers to avoid alcohol and out-of-marriage sex.
In an appearance at the National Stadium, The Friend of Youth Foundation suggested the slogan: "If you drink, don't float so that you don’t risk sexually abusing others." Wednesday was Loy Kratong day in which Thais float krathongs - small offerings to the river spirits.
The Friend of Youth Foundation cited a poll in which 40 per cent of respondents said that Loy Kratong was the festival where people most likely will have sex.
The poll by the abolitionist group showed that 82 per cent of respondents drink alcohol on Loy Kratong Day because the atmosphere lends itself to exuberant celebrations and increases the chances of having sex.
The poll also reported that 61 per cent said that drinking alcohol increased the chance of being sexually abused.
The foundation members asked those with authority or responsible for security to strictly regulate the consumption of alcohol in festival areas such as universities, schools and public parks. The foundation advised officials that they should take precautions and try to prevent incidents of abuse.
The Emergency Medical Institute of Thailand (EMIT) said accident rates increased during Loy Kratong, with most involving fireworks and drowning.