Lifesaving manager Paul Hawkins said the training was held to ensure that all members were well-equipped for the anticipated busy summer season.

The club spent the day brushing up on essential life-saving skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, spinal caries and communication techniques, he said.

``In the past week four swimmers have been rescued from the Bridport beach – a reminder that surf does not have to be big to be strong,'' he said.

``People who are unfamiliar with beach swimming often underestimate the unpredictability of the ocean.

``We practise tube and boat rescues and have a timed swim - the club's only five years old, so it’s about getting that culture of water safety because we have some of the best beaches in the North-East.''

Surf Life Saving Tasmania general manager Tony van den Enden said that if someone was in trouble in the water, they should not panic.

``Float on your back and assess the situation,'' he said.

‘‘Be aware of your own limitations - if you’re not a strong swimmer, or not confident or familiar with the area, just take that little bit of time to assess.''