Life savers are harnessing the power of smartphones and wi-fi to stop foreign tourists drowning on Queensland beaches.

In a world-first trial, wi-fi will be used to push surf safety alerts in seven languages to beachgoers between the red and yellow flags.

It was hoped the lure of free wi-fi would also help keep people inside the flags. Credit:Robert Pearce

People will get unlimited free wi-fi when they're between the flags alongside a live, multi-lingual feed about beach conditions, closures and safe swimming tips.

Surf Life Saving Queensland hopes the trial will smash language barriers that contribute to drownings.