Pubdate: Mon, 28 Feb 2005
Source: Clearwater Times (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Clearwater Times
Contact:  http://www.clearwatertimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1448

CRYSTAL METH NOT JUST AN URBAN ISSUE

Rural Canada is experiencing rising instances of methamphetamine use,
along with its urban neighbors. Though it is not a new drug, this
member of the amphetamine group is arousing increasing concern in
rural communities.

Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine that is most commonly
smoked. It is made from ingredients that can be bought in local drug
and hardware stores. Its composition can vary, depending on the
ingredients used. Some of these ingredients are allergy, sinus and
cough medications; acetone; brake cleaner; denatured alcohol; and
sulfuric or muriatic acid.

The drug can be easily and quickly manufactured in unregulated,
illegal clandestine (clan) labs or " cook operations," using these
everyday ingredients. Ingredient materials do not need to be imported,
making meth relatively cheap to produce and to purchase. In some
areas, unfortunately, it is also becoming easy to find.

The drugs produced in the clan labs and cook operations don't only
harm the people who use them, but the environment. Each kilogram of
this dangerous and highly addictive drug produces five to seven
kilogram of chemical waste. The volatile chemical reactions used to
create crystallized form of methamphetamine release toxic gases and
the discarded chemicals are often carelessly dumped.

Anhydrous ammonia is one of the commonly used ingredients in producing
this drug. Rural areas offer easy availability of this substance and
the relative seclusion of rural areas can make them attractive for
those illegal activities.

The RCMP and urban police forces have compiled lists of clan lab
indicators. These include:

* unusual strong odors (ether, ammonia, acetone) * windows blacked out
* renters who will pay only in cash * people coming and going at
unusual times * unusual amounts of glass containers being brought into
the home * excessive trash, including large amounts of items such as
drain cleaners, lye, solvents, iodine and other chemical containers

If you suspect a clan lab in your area, DO NOT approach the building.
Alert the local RCMP attachment or police department and let them deal
with the situation. They are equipped with the necessary biohazard
clothing and equipment to deal with a contaminated building or site.

A strong community is one of the best safeguards against clan labs.
Rural Crime Watch organizations exist in many areas and serve as the
eyes and ears of law enforcement to supplement police who run them, in
your community. Report suspicious activity to the local RCMP or police
department.
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MAP posted-by: Derek