Signs of a
Methamphetamine Lab
- for Landlords and Other Property Owners
No single activity is sole proof that a methamphetamine lab is located in your area. However, a combination of the following may be a reason for concern.
Signs that may point to an existing methamphetamine lab
- Unusual, strong chemical-like odors
- Unusual number of chemical containers
- Lots of jars, bottles, jugs, or two liter soda bottles with sludge
- Windows that are covered or blacked out
- People smoking outside
- Paranoid or odd behavior
- Lots of traffic, especially at night and at odd hours
- People being secretive and protective of area
- Exhaust fans
- Evidence of chemical or waste dumping such as burn pits or dead spots in the yard
Methamphetamine labs can be located almost anywhere
- Houses
- Garages
- Car Trunks
- Boats and Rafts
- Storage Units
- Basements
- Rental Properties
- Fields/Wooded Areas
- Hotels/Motels
- Trunk
Common locations include
- Barns or other farm buildings
- Suitcases
- Hotels/Motels
- Camps
- Truck Bodies
- Campers
- Trailers
- Vans
What you should do if you suspect a methamphetamine lab or dump on your property
- If you suspect a methamphetamine lab, do not approach it or the occupants yourself.
- Call your local state police barracks or city police department if you have information about, or even suspect, methamphetamine-related activity.
- If you believe there is a methamphetamine-related emergency, call 911.
This information was adapted from an educational initiative by the Vermont Department of Public Safety, the Vermont Department of Health and the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council.
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