Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have identified several clandestine laboratory dump sites throughout Adjala-Tosorontio this month, in the southern part of Simcoe County.
"Clandestine laboratory dumpsites pose a public safety concern due to the risk of accidental exposure, in addition to associated environmental concerns," OPP said in a news release on Wednesday.
Police say they are receiving assistance from an OPP team that is trained to safely investigate and dismantle clandestine synthetic drug labs and their associated dump sites.
"The chemical wastes found at clandestine laboratory dumpsites have public safety impacts to humans and wildlife due to the nature of the debris left behind. The illegal dumping can result in environmental contamination and health hazards," according to the news release.
DID YOU KNOW:
Indicators of a synthetic drug lab include:
• Suspicious activity, secretive behaviour and avoidance of neighbour interactions.
• Occupants attend for short time periods and at odd hours.
• Chemical odours.
• Garbage is rarely or never put out and may contain numerous chemical containers, glassware or bags of full of soil.
• Garbage is rarely or never put out for collection, and may contain numerous chemical containers, glassware or bags full of soil.
• Location has excessive security.
• Evidence of chemical dumping grounds on or near premises.
• Obstructed or covered windows.
• Odd items being brought inside the location - equipment, glassware, chemical drums, etc.
Police say the dangers of clandestine synthetic drug labs include fire, explosion, harmful fumes, and chemical exposure as well as environmental damage and waste.
