What are some of the dangers that are associated with methamphetamine lab raids?
• Safety of the raid team and the safety of the public from suspects should take priority over the potential dangers presented by taking down a methamphetamine lab. When attempting to achieve entry into a lab, incendiary devices, such as flash-bangs, should not be used since the lab scene is flammable and sparks, even from friction, may ignite a lab. Guard dogs are commonly found at labs. These dogs can distract or, worse, injure officers during a raid. Once entry is achieved, suspects should be secured and removed from the environment for the officers’ and suspects’ safety. The lab itself should also be identified quickly and, once secured, should be avoided by all other personnel to limit exposure. Officers should not touch anything. Light switches, heating mantles, and containers may be set up in such a way that sparks or changes in temperature may result in an explosion. Once the scene is secure, only certified lab personnel should assess the situation and determine the best course
Safety of the raid team and the safety of the public from suspects should take priority over the potential dangers presented by taking down a methamphetamine lab. When attempting to achieve entry into a lab, incendiary devices, such as flash-bangs, should not be used since the lab scene is flammable and sparks, even from friction, may ignite a lab. Guard dogs are commonly found at labs. These dogs can distract or, worse, injure officers during a raid. Once entry is achieved, suspects should be secured and removed from the environment for the officers’ and suspects’ safety. The lab itself should also be identified quickly and, once secured, should be avoided by all other personnel to limit exposure. Officers should not touch anything. Light switches, heating mantles, and containers may be set up in such a way that sparks or changes in temperature may result in an explosion. Once the scene is secure, only certified lab personnel should assess the situation and determine the best course o
