Dangers to Children Living in a Meth Lab
August 13, 2007 by Meth Lab Homes
Exposure to low levels of some meth ingredients may produce headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue; exposure to high levels can produce shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, dizziness, lack of coordination, eye and tissue irritation, chemical burns (to the skin, eyes, mouth, and nose), and death. Corrosive substances may cause injury through inhalation or contact with the skin. Solvents can irritate the skin, mucous membranes, and respiratory tract and affect the central nervous system.
Chronic exposure to the chemicals typically used in meth manufacture may cause cancer; damage the brain,liver, kidney, spleen, and immunologic system; and result in birth defects.Normal cleaning will not remove methamphetamine and some of the chemicals used to produce it. They may remain on eating and cooking utensils, floors, counter-tops, and absorbent materials. Toxic byproducts of meth manufacturing are often improperly disposed outdoors, endangering children and others who live, eat, play, or walk at or near the site.
Excerpt from the Office of Victims of Crime
I am an attorney writing an article on risks associated with meth labs. An interest is young children who are famlily members living in meth homes. I am told that poisonous gases from meth lab production seep into and have a long life in household cottons including baby blankets and teddy bears leaving a damaging residue potentially harmful to these youngsters. I would like to publish a report to Childern and Families, Guardian ad Litem, et al., warning caseworkers and volunteers taking small children into custody after an arrest to be sure not to take suspected contaminated items with them. It is likely they know this. I just want to make sure. Specifically what can a caseworker look for in the trash and elsewhere to raise suspicion that the home has been a meth lab and, if so, order a chemical survey for the best intereest of the children? Respectfully asking for guidance and anecdotal reports. Bill Kramer.