Ministry keeps an eye on tourist safety

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism recently published a notice on its official website drawing attention to poor safety of tourists. This follows secret visits by ministry officials to eight provinces and regions -- Zhejiang, Jiangxi and Fujian in East China, Guangdong, Hainan and Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in Southern China, the central province of Hubei and the southwestern province of Guizhou. These eight provinces and regions are home to many of the nation's popular tourist destinations.

The notice says that at many scenic spots and places of entertainment in these areas, travelers are not being reminded to wear life vests while engaging in water-based activities while underage teenagers are being allowed to enter internet bars and other places meant for adults.

There were 22 cases of safety violations in the cities of Nanning, Guilin and Chongzuo in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. These included travelers not wearing their seat-belts while driving, vendors selling goods without permission on tourist buses, and patrons at hot air balloon entertainment events not being offered safety gear like helmets.

The ministry said it has urged local authorities to take prompt corrective measures and keep a lookout for potential risks to tourists. Local authorities are also required to strictly punish operators of tours and entertainment venues if they don't follow safety regulations.