UK beachgoers have been urged to check one thing before planning to take a dip in the water. New reports have suggested that many of Britain's beaches are experiencing high levels of pollution with 41% of people surveyed observing a surge in plastic debris.

Waste removal professionals from Rainbow Rubbish, along with Emma Sturman, founder of Norfolk Beach Cleans, have sounded a serious warning about increasing safety hazards along the coast. Ms Sturman revealed what all is being found in the beaches as environmentalists continue their efforts to keep the beaches clean.

She said: "Used needles, broken glass, buried disposable BBQs (could still be hot or the metal grating could puncture the skin), toxic materials. There's also palm oil, which has been known to wash up on shore and is harmful to dogs."

According to Sturman, the most complained-about beach hazards include "Dog poo (bagged & unbagged alike), overflowing bins, takeaway packaging (fish & chips, etc)", creating serious health risks, and unwanted scents for those enjoying their summer holidays.

She added:"I have personally encountered a deceased seabird caught up in netting that you get from beach toys. There are often reports of seals being entangled by either fishing rope or flying rings."

The expert has urged the becahgoers to check the levels of pollutions online before planning to swim in any of the UK beaches.

She said: "Check water pollution quality on the Surfers Against Sewage app before swimming in the sea, check if the beach has lifeguards on duty and swim between the lifeguard's flags in the designated swim area.

"Bring a bin bag with you and take part in a mini beach clean while you're walking along the beach. Take your rubbish home with you or use the bins provided."

Miroslav Radov, owner of Rainbow Rubbish, adds a warning for those who might encounter harmful beach rubbish this summer. She said: "When you encounter potentially harmful litter, safety comes first. Use gloves, or cover your hands to avoid contamination, never let children handle unknown items, and remember that vapes and electronics need proper disposal at recycling centres. If you find dangerous items like needles, report them to authorities rather than moving them yourself."