POT CULTIVATION: PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES

Marijuana grow operations are established in all types of
neighbourhoods, from high-rise apartments in large cities to houses
in small rural towns. The exposure of adults, and especially
children, to illicit drug production or related drug activity poses
an immediate risk of harm. The poor ventilation in some indoor
marijuana cultivation operations can lead to potentially deadly
build-up of gases.

Approximately one in every 10 electrical modification required to
obtain the necessary amount of light and energy to grow the plants
results in fire. In addition to causing respiratory problems, mould,
pollen concentrations and chemicals associated with grow operations
can damage the property, which becomes a liability for future owners
and costs thousands of dollars to repair.

Indoor marijuana grow operations can be hard to detect and remain a
concern to law enforcement across the country.

A combination of the following indicators could point to an indoor
marijuana grow operation:

- - Windows are sometimes covered over with black plastic, heavy
curtains pressed against the windows or blinds that are tightly shut
and pressed against the windows.

- - There is high humidity inside a marijuana grow house that could
result in condensation on windows.

- - Growers are sometimes careless and leave equipment laying around
the yard. Look for discarded equipment.

- - Some of the electrical components in an indoor operation create
humming sounds that can sometimes be heard from the neighbour's
property. This is similar to a transformer on a hydro pole.

- - High intensity discharge, 1,000 watt lamps are normally used for
indoor grows and are sometimes not completely disguised.

- - The smell of growing marijuana can best be described as the unique
smell of rotting cabbage or skunk-like odour mixed with a sweet
vegetative smell.

- - Beware of dog signs or guard dogs are used to deter trespassers to
protect against theft or detection.

The public should never approach the occupants of a residence they
suspect of containing a marijuana grow operation but should contact
the police with their information or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-tips.