1. Swim Between the Flags. On patrolled beaches PALS lifeguards put up yellow and red flags on beaches where they are patrolling. Each morning they check out the beach to see if there are any rip currents or holes and then they put up two flags with a gap in the middle to show that this is the safest place to swim on the beach.

2. Listen to advice from lifeguards
Since the Lifeguards know the water conditions best, you should always listen to the advice of a lifeguard, regardless of how good a swimmer you consider yourself.

3. Never swim alone
Always swim under supervision. Never swim alone in case you get into difficulty. Its not about sharks. Its about getting a cramp or being caught by a strong current or getting washed off rocks causes a lot of people to get into trouble.

4. If in doubt stay out
If you are unsure about the water or your own abilities, you are better off staying out of the water. And if you think the sea is too rough, then do not go in. You know how good a swimmer you are, and it is being sensible to know when you could be putting yourself and others in danger.

5. Know your limits
You should know how far, how deep and how long you can swim in the sea. Never try to cross your own limits.

6. Read and obey the safety signs
PALS has posted safety signs across the public beaches of Karachi. Please read and follow the instructions of these signs for your own safety.

7. Learn to recognize Rip Currents and keep away from them
Learn to identify Rips and stay clear of them at all times. In order to learn more about Rips, read here and/or take the Beach Education program.

8. Don't Float Where You Can't Swim
Non swimmers often use floatation devices, like inflatable rafts or tubes, to go into the water. If they fall off, they can quickly drown. No one should use a floatation device unless they are able to swim. Use of a leash is not enough because a non-swimmer may panic and be unable to swim back to the floatation device, even with a leash. The only exception is a person wearing a PALS approved life jacket.
Floating around on a tire or a blow up mattress can be fun in a swimming pool but isn't a good idea at the beach where you could be dumped by waves or carried out further than you are able to swim back.

9. Always use safe equipment
Entering the water and relying on equipment means that your life may depend on it. Therefore, always use safe equipment that is meant for what you are intending to do. Don't compromise on quality, its your life involved here.

10. Never swim when tired, cold, unwell, under medication or intoxicated
Don't overdo a swim when tired or cold or unwell and under medication. It hampers your judgment and ability to swim in the water.

11. Swim along the beach rather than deeper into the sea
If you are doing a longer swim, then swim along the beach, not out to sea and back - then if you get tired or into difficulty, you have a chance of getting back to shore, or the lifeguard can see you and help you if you need it.

12. Don't swim after dark
Don't swim after dark, as no one can see you if you need help.