Cool down, but stay safe at Vic beaches

Victorians heading to the beach to escape rising temperatures are reminded to keep abreast of dangers in the water.

Emergency Services Minister Jane Garrett warned swimmers, who are expected to visit beaches in droves on Wednesday as the mercury reaches 41C, to stay between the flags and follow instructions of lifesavers at patrolled beaches.

She said surf rescue helicopters keep a lookout for sharks and rips between Waratah Bay, in South Gippsland, to Apollo Bay, in south western Victoria.

"These choppers have sirens that can alert people on the ground and have good communication with surf patrols too," Ms Garrett told reporters on Tuesday.

"Victoria has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and we love our beach culture but we want everyone to stay safe around the water."

The warning follows the deaths of two people, in separate incidents, in waters off Victoria's coastline in as many days.