Pubdate: Wed, 22 Apr 2009
Source: 100 Mile House Free Press (CN BC)
Copyright: 2009 100 Mile House Free Press
Contact:  http://www.100milefreepress.net/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2143

POT CULTIVATION: PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES

Marijuana grow operations are established in all types of 
neighbourhoods, from high-rise apartments in large cities to houses 
in small rural towns. The exposure of adults, and especially 
children, to illicit drug production or related drug activity poses 
an immediate risk of harm. The poor ventilation in some indoor 
marijuana cultivation operations can lead to potentially deadly 
build-up of gases.

Approximately one in every 10 electrical modification required to 
obtain the necessary amount of light and energy to grow the plants 
results in fire. In addition to causing respiratory problems, mould, 
pollen concentrations and chemicals associated with grow operations 
can damage the property, which becomes a liability for future owners 
and costs thousands of dollars to repair.

Indoor marijuana grow operations can be hard to detect and remain a 
concern to law enforcement across the country.

A combination of the following indicators could point to an indoor 
marijuana grow operation:

- - Windows are sometimes covered over with black plastic, heavy 
curtains pressed against the windows or blinds that are tightly shut 
and pressed against the windows.

- - There is high humidity inside a marijuana grow house that could 
result in condensation on windows.

- - Growers are sometimes careless and leave equipment laying around 
the yard. Look for discarded equipment.

- - Some of the electrical components in an indoor operation create 
humming sounds that can sometimes be heard from the neighbour's 
property. This is similar to a transformer on a hydro pole.

- - High intensity discharge, 1,000 watt lamps are normally used for 
indoor grows and are sometimes not completely disguised.

- - The smell of growing marijuana can best be described as the unique 
smell of rotting cabbage or skunk-like odour mixed with a sweet 
vegetative smell.

- -  Beware of dog signs or guard dogs are used to deter trespassers to 
protect against theft or detection.

The public should never approach the occupants of a residence they 
suspect of containing a marijuana grow operation but should contact 
the police with their information or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-tips.
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart