Public Warned To Avoid Trash That May Contain Meth Chemicals

By John Dodge

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Walkers, joggers are bikers in Indiana are being warned that any trash they find may be contaminated with chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine.

Indiana State Police issued a community alert that people enjoying the warmer weather may come across trash that could be toxic, flammable, corrosive and acidic.

Their advice: Don't touch it, and call police.

Debris like this could be remnants of a meth lab. (Credit: Indiana State Police)

"The combination of these chemicals could cause an explosion, fire or burns if they come into direct contact with the skin." police said in a statement.

Police said meth cooks are using a variety of containers to manufacture their product.

For example, 1.5-gallon gas cans have been found along the roadside by people who believe that they have found a new gas can and end up with a working meth lab.

Other items to avoid: battery casings, Ziploc style bags, empty blister packs and containers that contain a granular material.

Be aware of any type of cylinder found in a field, ditch or wooded area that has a modified valve. The valve will typically be modified in some way and will have a bright blue color to it.

These cylinders are used to store or transport anhydrous ammonia, which is an extremely dangerous gas when direct contact or inhalation has occurred.

If someone comes across this type of trash, contact the local Indiana State Police Post, which can be found at the following link: http://www.in.gov/isp/2382.htm .