Signs of methamphetamine production
Methamphetamine (unlike other illicit drugs) can be easily manufactured by using common household chemicals and equipment. Clandestine labs pose a danger to the public because of possible explosions, fires, and exposure to chemicals. These hidden labs threaten the environment when people running the labs dispose of waste chemicals by putting them down drains, in rivers and streams and pouring them on the ground.
Clandestine labs in Fargo have been located in hotels, apartments, single-family homes, and vehicles. You can help us by reporting suspected lab activity so it can be properly investigated. If you suspect a lab is in a certain location, stay clear of the area because of possible health hazards.
The following are indicators of a clandestine lab:
- covering or painting over of windows
- burn pits, stained soil or dead vegetation indicating dumping of chemicals or waste.
- packaging from over-the-counter cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine.
- empty containers from white gas, ether, starting fluids, Freon, lye or drain openers, paint thinner, acetone or alcohol.
- packaging from Epsom salts or rock salts.
- anhydrous ammonia tanks, propane tanks or coolers containing anhydrous ammonia.
- Pyrex/glass/Corningware containers or other kitchen glassware with hoses or duct tape on them.
- respiratory masks and filters, dust masks, rubber gloves, funnels, hosing and clamps.
- coffee filters, pillowcases or bed sheets stained red, or containing a white powdery residue.
- apartments or buildings that smell like chemicals, including sweet, bitter, ammonia or solvents.