The most common chemicals used to start the meth-making process are over-the-counter cold medications. Typical brands include Sudafed and Claritin, which contain ephedrine or pseudoephedrine as decongestants or stimulants.
How to Recognize a Meth Lab
Meth labs may be set up in houses, cars, rest areas, rental homes,parks, motel rooms, wooded areas, garages, storage sheds, barns and vacant buildings.
A typical meth lab is a collection of items listed above, either partially or whole. These items may be in original containers or concealed. They may be dumped as is or placed in garbage bags or boxes.
Labs are frequently abandoned and the waste is potentially harmful if you would come into contact with it. Chemicals may also be burned or dumped in woods or along roads.
***Please use caution when cleaning up roadside garbage or garbage bags found in wooded areas.
If You Suspect a Meth Lab....
Do not go near or in an area where you think it may be used for cooking meth. Labs present extreme dangers from explosions and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Breathing the fumes and handling substances can cause injury and even death.
Never handle any materials you suspect were used for making meth, such as contaminated glassware and needles. Skin contact can result in burns or poisoning. Handling items can also cause some of the chemicals to explode on contact with water or air. The chemicals can cause damage by inhalation, injection or contact.
If you are not sure what it is, do NOT touch.
Consider that when law enforcement responds to a meth lab, they wear specially designed chemical suits and boots, gloves, respirators or even SCBA.
If you suspect a methamphetamine lab or other suspicious activity in your area contact the Floyd County Sheriff's Office or your local law enforcement agency immediately.
