|
Description
and Mission of the Program
The
mission of this program is to educate the public about the methamphetamine labs
and to assure protection of the general public
from toxic chemicals remaining in locations where methamphetamine
has been manufactured. Activities of the programs are
specified under RCW 64.44, WAC 246-205, and Cowlitz County Code
15.38.
Methamphetamine is a
potent central nervous stimulant, often called “speed” or
“crank”. The possession, manufacture and distribution of this
drug is illegal in the United States, as well as many other
countries. Both abandoned or active methamphetamine labs are a danger to the
general public, as exposure to them can lead to serious health
consequences.
Acute exposure to hazardous chemicals in these labs
can result in shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, dizziness,
lack of coordination, chemical irritation and burns to the skin,
eyes, nose and mouth. Acute symptoms occur
in individuals involved in drug busts. Less acute exposure can
elicit symptoms of headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue or lethargy,
particularly before a site has been adequately cleaned and
ventilated.
|
