Devon and Cornwall Police officers have been trained how to rescue people from water.
Acting Ch Insp Simeon Bayliss said: “Although we are not specialists in water rescue our officers are often the first on the scene when an incident happens.
“They need to be equipped and trained to help people safely, as well as providing assistance to other agencies.”
Devon and Cornwall Police said it was the first force in the country to train officers to rescue casualties from water.
Earlier, a demonstration in Exmouth took place in partnership with Surf Life Saving GB.
Acting Ch Insp Bayliss said: “We already include some aspects of land-based rescue in our current training, but we wanted to work with experts to develop enhanced training that will benefit everyone.”
The training included enhanced public and police safety work and improved first-aid training.
Adrian Mayhew, director of national operations and safety for Surf Life Saving GB, said he was “very pleased” to help the police improve officer training.
He said: “The more people who understand the principles of safe land-based rescue, the better.
“Sadly, many people who enter the water to help someone in distress end up becoming victims themselves.
“Even on a blisteringly hot summer’s day, the water around our coast can be very cold and cause your body to go into shock, even if you are a strong swimmer.”
He said the safest option was always to attempt a rescue from the shore first. Mr Mayhew also advised calling 999 and asking for the coastguard.