Police issue 'meth warning' for discarded bottles, risk of exposure

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) — Bellingham police are warning people to watch out for discarded milk jugs and bottles that may have been used to make methamphetamine.

The Bellingham Herald reports the problem has become more prevalent in the city and may be putting people at risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals.

City public works employees are now getting trained by the Bellingham Police Department's bomb squad and hazardous materials team to recognize gallon jugs or plastic bottles that have been used to make meth. It's the first of this kind of training Bellingham public works employees have received.

The employees are taught to recognize the hazard and contact police for assistance so that bomb technicians, who are also trained in hazmat response, can dispose of it.

The bottles often are wrapped in duct tape or contain aluminum foil inside. Officers said meth users will mix chemicals inside the bottles or jugs, ending up with a small amount of the drug.

Police Lt. Bob Yander Yacht called the problem a "newer concern," that could endanger adults, young children and pets.