What are some of the important steps officers should follow when first encountering a methamphetamine lab?
• Officer safety is a primary goal in any operation. Officers should secure the area, request backup, and notify the appropriate agencies in the area (fire department, HAZMAT teams, lab response teams, etc.). If the officers are not equipped to investigate the methamphetamine lab, they should transport the suspects to a place of safety and notify appropriate personnel/agencies. Officers should, however, make notes of what they have seen (i.e., glassware, denatured alcohol, lye, etc.) and determine what condition the lab is in (not always possible due to safety considerations). Providing this type of information to the proper investigating personnel or departments will let them know what to expect when they inspect the lab. Safety is of paramount importance for all concerned.
