Methamphetamine (meth) laboratories are a growing problem in Canada and pose a significant risk to police officers who unknowingly encounter them. Because a Clandestine drug laboratory becomes an emergency response situation at the time it is discovered, it is important for all front-line officers and first responders to be trained to safely and properly manage the crime scene.

This comprehensive course will allow police officers to gain awareness in relation to clandestine meth laboratories and the specific risks associated with meth addicts. By understanding the methods of production, effects, and symptoms of meth, officers will be better able to detect lab locations, manage meth users, and safeguard against potential hazards present in a first response action.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

• Define methamphetamine and recall the characteristics of it as it is sold and used on the street
• Recall how methamphetamine affects the body both psychologically and physiologically
• Recall the common characteristics of a methamphetamine user
• Identify the different types of clandestine methamphetamine labs and their common locations
• Recall the basic equipment and chemical elements used in the production of methamphetamine
• Differentiate between the red phosphorous reduction and anhydrous ammonia methods of methamphetamine production
• Recall the hazards that may be encountered in a clandestine methamphetamine lab
• Recall precautions when at the scene of a clandestine methamphetamine lab
• Recall the statutes that apply to the operation of methamphetamine labs

Level

This course is for all levels of front-line officers, management and first responders. It is not intended to instruct in the areas of processing meth lab evidence. In order to interdict a meth lab the officer must participate in a course offered by the Canadian Police College or a recognized agency in the United States.

Subject Matter Expert

Staff Sergeant Darcy Strang, a 22 year veteran of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), has significant knowledge and experience in the area of clandestine Methamphetamine laboratories. He has interdicted numerous “super-labs” in and around the Edmonton area and was an active undercover operator for four years. After his tenure in Drug Unit as a Detective he returned as the Staff Sergeant of the Section. He is currently the Section Commander of the Tactical Section at EPS.

S/Sgt. Strang has received intensive training and certification in Clandestine Laboratory Detection and Response by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in Quantico, Virginia. He has attended and presented at several meth conferences and courses in the United States. S/Sgt. Strang has been qualified as an expert in Methamphetamine, meth labs, cocaine, ecstasy, pills, marijuana and marijuana production in all levels of court.

Course Details

Content Provider: Edmonton Police Service Price: $50.00 + GST Languages: English Course Duration:4 hours Release Date: July 27, 2005 Date of Last Revision/Review: Janvier 2010