HSN

By: TVR – a 28 year veteran First Responder

First responders are widely recognized as having extremely dangerous and stressful occupations. They often encounter direct danger in situations that are unsafe, violent, and tragic. Trends show expanding numbers of methamphetamine (meth) labs throughout the nation, so in an effort to educate their first responders Hawaii’s Department of Public Safety recently announced that many firefighters throughout the Hawaiian Islands, along with a number of law enforcement agencies, would soon be receiving training on the hazards that can be encountered in meth labs, so that if a clandestine lab is uncovered during the course of their duties, the emergency responders will know how to protect themselves and the surrounding community.

The state Department of Public Safety’s Narcotics Enforcement Division recently announced that it would be holding the training, which they say, is not because of an increase in the number of labs in the islands but, but instead to prepare the responders in the event a clandestine laboratory is discovered.

Methamphetamine also known as “meth,” “speed,” “crank,” “crystal,” and “ice,” is a potent synthetic drug that is synthesized in clandestine drug labs. There are many different chemical “recipes” for “cooking” meth. Each uses different ingredients using a variety of ingredients, but all the formulas have one thing in common, they require ingredients that are flammable and explosive. Recipes vary from using common household products, over-the-counter medications, solvents; metals and strong acids. These labs contain all sorts of hidden hazards. A clandestine meth lab will likely have hazardous, flammable chemicals stored in every type of container imaginable.

Many times firefighters are not be aware of a meth lab operation when responding to an incident. A meth lab is always a hazardous materials incident, these first responders are at risk for numerous health problems when they come in contact with clandestine meth labs during the course of their duties. Production methods involve numerous chemical reactions that can cause fire, explosion, and release of toxic gases. In addition making a pound of crystal meth produces at least five pounds of hazardous byproducts and waste that are both dangerous to breath and possibly explosive, contaminating a residences carpet, wallboard, ceiling tile, furniture or draperies which may absorb spilled or vaporized chemicals thereby making these labs potential hazardous waste sites.

Remember that meth labs pose a definite threat to first responders. If a first responder were to unexpectedly come across an active meth lab they can be susceptible to acute chemical exposure, which can cause lung damage and burns to the body. So to protect responders if a meth lab is suspected, only trained and properly equipped professionals, wearing the appropriate level personnel protective equipment (PPE) should enter the building.

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