Methamphetamine Labs and Chemical Emergency Response

1
Methamphetamine Labs and Chemical Emergency
Response

• Anchorage Fire Department
• Battalion Chief Wade Strahan

2
Dangerous to the Public and Firefighters

• According to the Center for Disease Control and
  prevention 79 emergency responders were injured
  in 14 states between 1996 and 1999.

3
AFD Meth Finds

• Fire
• Medical Emergency
• Funny smells
• Auto accidents
• Dumped waste

4
Lab Locations

• Mini-storage
• Motel rooms
• Trailers
• Motor Homes
• Cars
• Trucks

5
Primary Fire Department Emergency Functions

• Life Safety Rescue
• Mitigate Emergency Conditions
• Fire
• Medical
• Chemical
• Support Law Enforcement

6
Lab Site HazardsRisks to Firefighters and
Responders

• Fire
• Explosions
• Booby Traps
• Criminal Activities
• Chemical Exposures

7
AFD Chemical ID Equipment

• Chemical ID is a basic hazmat team competency
• Most newer equipment acquired through domestic
  preparedness grants for terrorism response.

8
Hazcat Kit
10 45 Minute Process
9
Hazmat IDInfrared Spectroscopy
2-3 Minute Process
10
Hazmat ID
11
Ramam Technology
Laser Spectroscopy
2-3 Minute Process Point and Shoot
12
Common Chemicals

• Flammable Liquids
• Acids
• Strong Bases
• Pressurized Gasses

13
Fire Department Response to Known Lab

• Support Law Enforcement
• Decontamination
• Emergency Medical Assistance
• Fire and Explosion Protection
• Hazmat Team Assistance

14
Decon Shelter Systems
15
Conclusion

• Firefighters may not be aware of a meth lab
  operation when responding to an incident
• Meth labs can be equipped with security devices
  containing explosives
• Firefighters can encounter dangerous criminals
• A meth lab is always a hazardous materials
  incident