Toxic canisters wash up on Qld beaches

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More canisters containing a potentially lethal chemical have washed up on far north Queensland beaches.

Police say three silver canisters containing aluminium phosphide, which authorities warn can be fatal if inhaled, were found on beaches near Cairns, Innisfail and Mission Beach in the past week.

Four canisters had been discovered along a 200km stretch of coastline from Ayr to Ingham in the months since February.

Police are warning beachgoers to avoid the canisters if they spot them.

The deadly chemical they contain is used to fumigate ships, and it's believed the canisters probably came from a passing vessel.

"This is a highly restricted toxic substance and indeed a very dangerous poison," Cairns District Crime Prevention Officer Cary Coolican said earlier this month.

"For safety's sake, if you come across one of these canisters, report it immediately.

"Do not try to inspect, open or transport it, and ensure you stand well away from it."

Aluminium phosphide generates phosphine gas when it comes into contact with air or moisture and can also self-ignite in certain conditions.

"Parents and guardians should adequately supervise children and pets too," Sergeant Coolican said.

"They can be very curious and may think the canisters are toys and want to play with them."

- AAP