Songkran is a dangerous time for women. They risk sexual harassment and assault during water fights, or elsewhere.

Deputy police spokesman Maj-General Ruangsak Jarit-ek believes digital cameras or cell-phone cameras can help.

"If women take a picture of those who assault them, then we've got evidence," he says.

Separately, Songkhla police chief Maj-General Wiroon Iampaijit says picture evidence is useful. But, even without it he encourages victims to come forward. "Police will take action", he says. To reduce risk, he suggests women and girls stick together in groups.

Revealing clothes

Ruangsak adds they shouldn't wear revealing outfits or get drunk. He says those attacking or taking advantage of women during the festival had better look out. They'll be prosecuted.

Phuket's Colonel Paveen Pongsirin is using psychology. "We will park vehicles with arrested people around the town," Paveen says.

The deputy chief says applying talc to women and girls can be seen as sexual harassment. "It's a criminal offence," he adds.

Paveen adds Songkran revellers shouldn't play loud music or splash passers-by. "Some people are out running errands or on their way to work. It's not right to soak them," he adds.

Full force

In Bangkok, Metropolitan Police commissioner Lt-General Asawin Kwanmuang has cancelled leave for all officers so he'll have a full contigent out ensuring public safety throughout the festival.

Meanwhile, Sampeng wholesale market in Bangkok reports fewer sales of water guns this year.

"It's about half last year's value," Jeerapat Thiradejsahasap says. He's still selling, but cash-strapped customers are buying cheaper toys.