Splash! Happy new year, Thai-style

BANGKOK (Reuters Life!) - Water fights broke out all over Thailand on Friday as thousands of locals and tourists shrugged off security fears and celebrated the Thai new year.

Armed with buckets, hoses and water pistols, Thais and visitors fought pitched battles at the start of the three-day Songkran festival under the watchful eye of scores of policemen on alert for possible bomb attacks in the capital.

Thais believe water washes away bad luck and helps usher in prosperity.

"This is crazy, but it's a very fun way to experience Bangkok," said American tourist Katie Bradley.

Thai police have said they would deploy extra forces in Bangkok for the celebrations to prevent a repeat of the December 31 blasts that killed three people.

Many Thais said they refused to let the security situation dampen their festivities. "Everybody has just come out to play like every year," said Suriyan Chantarakamol. "I am not worried."

Apart for the revelry, the new year is also a time for family gatherings, prayer and visits to the graveyard to pay respects to deceased relatives.

Many countries have advised their citizens to exercise a high degree of caution if visiting Thailand over the Songkran holiday because of threats of terrorist attacks.