Pubdate: Sun, 15 Jan 2006
Source: Morning Star, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 The Morning Star
Contact:  http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1352
Author: Richard Rolke
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

PROGRAM AIMS TO STEM THE USE OF CRYSTAL METH

A major campaign is being launched to keep crystal meth from 
exploding into a major social problem.

Vernon's Safe Community Unit will introduce the Meth Watch program in 
March, urging local merchants to report large purchases of items used 
to make the drug.

"The problem is virtually non-existent right now (in Vernon) but we 
can't rest on that," said Terry Pakenham, Safe Communities Unit manager.

"We want to get a leg up on it now. Some communities have been 
devastated by meth."

Crystal meth comes in clear crystals and is a form of methamphetamine 
hydrochloride. It is inhaled or smoked.

Cheap compared to other drugs, crystal meth has become popular in 
many communities across North America.

One of the challenges with crystal meth is it can be produced 
virtually anywhere, such as a kitchen.

"The components are easily available and that's the issue," said Pakenham.

"When the components are brought together, you can have one serious drug."

The components needed to make crystal meth can be found in everyday 
items such as cough syrup, nail polish remover, rubbing alcohol, 
drain cleaner, match books, paint thinner and lithium from batteries.

Because the items needed are so common, many merchants don't consider 
the fact that they may be used to produce crystal meth.

"Some people setting up a lab buy large quantities and no one is 
thinking of it," said Pakenham.

"But when you put it all together, there could be an indication of 
somebody setting up a meth lab."

Meth Watch will be completely voluntary, but Pakenham is confident 
local businesses will want to participate.

"We will encourage merchants to give us a call when there are large 
purchases and to educate their staff on the issue," he said.

Once the Safe Communities Unit has been notified, the RCMP will be 
called to keep an eye out for a lab or meth sales.

"It gives us a leg up on intelligence," said Pakenham.
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