Kids exposed to lab content which may cause seizures

DETECTIVES are shocked at finding more young children at poisonous clandestine drug laboratories as production of methamphetamines rises in Victoria.

The most worrying methamphetamine for police is ice -- a crystalised, potent version of speed that causes hallucinations, seizures and violent psychosis.

According to the major drug investigation division, ice labs are hidden in the suburbs.
As the Herald Sun revealed last week, Victorian detectives busted more than 50 methamphetamine labs in the past 18 months -- about a third of the labs they believe are operating.

"While there has been no large scale (ice) laboratory seizures, there has been a slight increase in the quantity of ice being seized at street level," Det-Insp Adrian White confirmed yesterday.

The clandestine labs are used to produce designer drugs like speed, ice and amphetamine-based ecstasy.

They are highly flammable and toxic.

Major drug detectives, who have to wear protective suits and breathing apparatus when dismantling the labs, are angry at a rise in the number of children found at homes where labs are operating.

The trend could spur a change in legislation so that negligent adults risking their children's lives while making methamphetamines can be punished severely by courts.

"It is extremely disturbing," Det-Insp White said.

"We are undertaking some research in potential drug-endangered children legislation.

"In the absence of specific legislation we will work in conjunction with the Department of Human Services to ensure the health and welfare of children when they are located in a drug lab."

Those who cook dangerous drugs around children can charged with offences including conduct endangering life.

Det-Insp White said ice was the most potent methamphetamine and usually smoked or injected.
"Crystal amphetamine is on the rise and this brings with it further health concerns as many people use ice intravenously," he said.

"As such, we are then faced with the same health issues that we see with heroin given that many drug users will share needles."

Photographs given to Victoria Police by US law enforcement agencies show the ravaging effects prolonged methamphetamine use can have.

Within five years they can look like they have aged 20 years, with open sores and rotten teeth.
Along with obvious physical deterioration, ice can cause high blood pressure, seizures, stroke, brain damage and death.

ANYONE with information about methamphetamine production is asked to call crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.