For those that like to head to the beach on the weekend, even in winter, a warning has been issued from Ballina Shire Council, after they received notification from the organisation Tangaroa Blue about silver canisters filled with fatal Aluminium Phosphide pellet's found washed ashore along the east coast.

Aluminium phosphide is primarily used as a pesticide that is used by various professionals including farmers and pest controllers. It is often dispersed in pellets; the pellets react with moisture which produces toxic phosphine gas.

The effects of exposure to aluminium phosphide are usually very rapid and can be fatal.

Ballina Shire Council advised, "Warning: if you see a silver canister on the beach or shoreline do NOT touch it and call 000 immediately".

Tangaroa Blue, a non-profit charity, has shared this important information for beach users to help them identify these dangerous items.

Council has not received any reports of these canisters on our local beaches or shorelines, however, it is important to be aware following the recent flooding.