Beachgoers have been warned to stay safe at the coast in the wake of a seaside tragedy in which a five-year-old girl died.

The warning comes as the family of the girl who was swept out to sea at Durdle Door on Wednesday said they had been "overwhelmed" with messages of love and support.

The girl was pulled from the water at around 11.30am by the crew of a military range safety vessel which responded to mayday calls. Sadly, she was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

The girl’s mum, who is in her 30s and lives in Salisbury, was rescued from the water by a member of the public.

Police believe the incident to be a 'tragic accident'.

A fundraising page has been set up to support the family.

In an online message, the girl's grandmother said their pain is "so raw".

"Thank you so much for your messages of love and support," she said.

"We are so thankful for all your prayers at this difficult time."

While the circumstances of what happened are being investigated, rescuers have issued a general warning for people flocking to the coast to be safe.

"Before you go [to the beach] you should check locally so you know there are no rip tides, and make sure you tell someone where you're going," said Andy Sargent, coxswain of Weymouth Lifeboat. He said it was preferable to swim only from lifeguarded beaches.

Mr Sargent added: "If you find yourself in trouble, we advise people not to do anything for the first minute or two – just collect your thoughts and get your breath back. Then you can swim towards safety, and use one hand to attract attention."

The RNLI is meanwhile urging people to 'Respect the Water' as temperatures rise this week

"Sea temperatures remain in single figures and once in the water people could suffer from cold water shock," said Guy Addington from the charity.

"If you are feeling brave enough for a swim, we’d recommend wearing a wetsuit at this time of year to stay warmer."

RNLI figures show that around half of those who die at the coast each year never even expected to end up in the water and find themselves in difficulty as a result of slips, trips or falls. To prevent this happening, it is important for people to plan their activity, but also think about what they would do in an emergency if something unexpected happens.

Police are calling for anyone who witnessed how the girl came to be in the water to contact officers if they have not already done so. Those who may have filmed or photographed the incident should also get in touch. The incident reference is 18:127.

To support the child's family, visit gofundme.com/5fh5scg

STAFF members and visitors to Durdle Door and nearby campsite expressed sorrow and shock at the death.

"It's so sad, and on such a beautiful day," said Jo Muir, manager of the campsite shop.

"Luckily these things don't happen often at all. It's one of those accidents - it's said, and we hope we don't see it ever again."

Sarah Cooke, sitting on the beach in the morning sunshine, professed shock when told of the incident. "I am really surprised," said Ms Cooke, who had travelled down for the morning from Bristol with her dog and teenage daughter. "You don't expect things like that to happen here - it's so peaceful. We love it here."

Another holidaying couple, Bob and Paula Vickers from the North Cotswolds, said they had been at Lulworth Cove at the time of the incident the day before, but had noticed the search-and-rescue helicopter and other emergency vehicles.

"The sea was so rough," said Mr Vickers. "We saw a guy get forced out of his canoe onto the rocks by the waves - they were coming in really strong, even though the weather was still."