MUNCIE, Indiana (MyFoxBoston.com) — Indiana State Police said an “active meth lab” was found after Wal-Mart employees reported a suspicious backpack in the men's rest room.
Troopers had to wear protective respirators and suits to dismantle the lab and remove the chemicals.
Nobody expects to find a meth lab in a public place, but officials say they were not surprised.
“With warm weather approaching and outside activities increasing, so does the potential for people to encounter toxic and hazardous meth trash or a working meth lab left unattended,” according to an alert from Indiana State Police in Pendleton, IN.
“Rather than the Meth cook blowing up or contaminating their house, (meth manufacturers) are now often leaving behind the deadly explosive chemicals in public places to return later to get the finished product. They will often times dump their trash, which includes Sudafed blister packs; Liquid Fire drain cleaner bottles, battery casings, and plastic drink bottles with white residue in the bottom, in rural or desolate areas, or in alleys or vacant lots.”
The chemicals can pose a danger to anyone who comes in contact with them.
“….(T)hese labs and meth lab trash contain chemicals that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, and acidic. The combination of these chemicals could cause an explosion, fire or burns if they come into direct contact with the skin. The chemical fumes can cause permanent damage to organs and the nervous system.”
