Skip to content

OPP issues tips on how to spot potential meth labs

The tips come as the OPP begins to share more information on methamphetamine and synthetic drug use to educate the public on their negative impacts
methamphetamine
File photo
NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
*************************
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is just one of the many Canadian police services working with the Canadian Integrated Response to Organized Crime (CIROC), that are collaborating to educate, protect and inform the public about the negative impacts of methamphetamine and other synthetic drugs. Methamphetamine is pervasive in all of our communities and has contributed to crimes of violence and property crimes. The numbers of methamphetamine seizures in Canada has continued to increase since 2010 and poses a threat to the safety and well-being of our communities.

The OPP will be sharing posters, information cards and community safety videos to help educate the public and community agencies. These resources as well as other additional information can be found by visiting the Central Region OPP social media accounts on Twitter and Facebook.

Methamphetamine and synthetic drug labs can be found anywhere. Indicators of a lab may include:

  • Suspicious activity, secretive behaviour and individuals who may avoid neighbour interactions
  • Occupants attend for short time periods and at odd hours
  • Chemical odours
  • Garbage contains numerous chemical containers, glassware, bags full of soil or garbage are never put out
  • Location has excessive security
  • Evidence of chemical dumping grounds on or near premises (burn pits or dead spots on lawn)
  • Windows covered
  • Odd items being brought inside the location - equipment, glassware, chemical drums, etc.

The OPP encourages social media followers to share the messages and information in order to help educate other members within your community of the potential indicators of methamphetamine and synthetic drug labs as well as the dangers methamphetamine and synthetic drug production poses within our communities.

If you see indicators of a methamphetamine or synthetic drug lab, remain at a safe distance, do not approach suspects and call your local detachment at 1-888-310-1122. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

"Methamphetamine has devastating effects on individuals, families and our neighbourhoods. The National Methamphetamine and Synthetic Drug Production Public Awareness Campaign empowers members of the public to recognize and report illegal and harmful production labs in their neighbourhoods and contribute to safer communities."

Chief Superintendent Dwight Peer - Regional Commander - Central Region.

During the campaign, members across Central Region will deliver imperative information to our communities to raise awareness and concern in an effort to make a collaborative and positive change in our neighbourhoods.

************************