A DEADLY substance is washing up on beaches the area.

Gwynedd Council’s Maritime Unit is warning dog owners that palm oil has been washed ashore on some beaches and on more remote areas of the county’s coasts.

Palm oil is safe for humans but can be lethal to dogs if ingested.

Gwynedd council is urging dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead, especially if walking along the high-tide line where the palm oil would most likely be washed-up.

Barry Davies, Gwynedd Council’s maritime officer said: “Our message to the public is to let us know if they come across palm oil on Gwynedd beaches. We’d encourage residents not to touch it, and would advise dog-owners to keep their animals away from the substance which can be white or yellow in colour.

“When we are made aware of palm oil on a beach in the county, our staff make every effort to visit the site and clear the substance as soon as possible. So far, we have received calls about the substance at Barmouth, Tywyn and Dinas Dinlle, as well as the Nefyn and Morfa Nefyn area in Pen Llyn.

“If a member of the public does come across it, we’d ask them to call the Gwynedd Maritime Unit directly on 01758 704066 so that our staff can deal with the matter.”