All of us have a list of concerns when moving into a new home but if you’re in Missouri you should have possible meth contamination on your list. If you’re moving into a location that is in or near a drug abuse area, foreclosed property or prior use area consider environmental testing for street drugs as number one on your list.
Sometimes the evidence is obvious. Sometimes it’s not. Meth labs may be hidden behind false walls. You might notice alterations that seem odd such as exhaust fans mounted where they have no logical use or bootlegged power supply. The following list by: Chemist Lynn Riemer Of The North Metro Drug Task Force gives more obvious meth lab signs:
- Yellow discoloration on walls, drains, sinks and showers
- Blue discoloration on valves of propane tanks and fire extinguishers
- Fire detectors that are removed or taped off
- Experiencing physical symptoms while inside the house, such as burning in your eyes or throat, itching, a metallic taste in your mouth and breathing problems
- Unusual strong odors that smell like materials from a garage, such as solvent and paint thinner, cat urine or ammonia the use of security cameras and surveillance equipment.