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One danger associated
with Methamphetamines that is not connected to the majority of other
illicit drugs is the manufacturing process. Since Meth can be made from
common ingredients, using readily available equipment, clandestine Meth
labs [clan labs] appear and disappear everywhere. In South Dakota, clan
labs have been discovered in the country, in small towns and in the
largest cities; in homes, apartments and motels. In fact, Meth can be
made in makeshift labs small enough to be stored in a suitcase or cooler
and set up anywhere.
Being in or near a
Meth lab is extremely dangerous – both while the drug is being cooked and
after a lab has been deserted. During the preparation of Meth, there is a
risk of fire, explosion and exposure to toxic fumes. After a cook, the
toxic nature of Meth ingredients leaves behind hazardous waste - six
pounds of residue are generated by each pound of Meth manufactured.
It costs an average
of $5,000-$25,000 to clean up a Meth lab, but a property could be a total
loss if buildings have to be demolished. Learn the signs of a potential
Meth lab to protect your family and your property from catastrophic
damage:
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A strong smell
that might resemble cat urine, or an unusual chemical smell like ether,
ammonia or acetone.
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Little or no traffic
during the day, but lots of traffic at extremely late hours
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Extra effort to cover
windows or reinforce doors
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Residents never putting
their trash out
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Lab materials
surrounding the property (lantern fuel cans, red chemically stained coffee
filters, clear glass jugs and duct tape)
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Vehicles
loaded with trunks, chemical containers, or basic chemistry paraphernalia
- glassware, rubber tubing, etc.
-
Laboratory glassware
being carried into the residence
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Inhabitants smoking
outside due to fumes
If you see evidence
that makes you suspect a Meth lab, call law enforcement immediately and
explain your concerns. Do not attempt to gather evidence on your own, and
never handle any materials that may be associated with a lab.
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Chemical Process
Meth History
Forms of Meth
Meth Ingredients
Meth Paraphernalia
Effects of Use
Signs & Symptoms
Tweakers
User Progression
Treatment
Community Costs
Fast Facts
Lab Overview
Types of Labs
Contamination
Cleaning Methods
Remediation Cos.
SD Recommendations
EPA Guidelines |
