Pubdate: Wed, 23 May 2007 Source: Huntsville Forester, The (CN ON) Copyright: 2007 The Huntsville Forester Contact: http://www.huntsvilleforester.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2430 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) WATCH FOR HOME-GROWS Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka wants to notify the public that home-grow operations are modified houses that are used to grow large amounts of marijuana. Significant changes are made to houses in order to supply sufficient light, water and ventilation to the plants. Illegal hydro bypasses can cause charging of the ground outside, which can create shock and electrocution hazards to unsuspecting victims such as neighbours, children and meter readers. A home-grow operation can steal upwards of $1,000 of electricity a month and can generate revenue of up to $1 million per year. The cost of these houses affects us all in one way or another, whether it's through rising hydro bills, house insurance, loss of home equity, or increased criminal activities. However, the cost of working together to have a safer community is priceless. Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1-800-222-8477. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom