MARIJUANA GROW-OPS A COMMUNITY PROBLEM

Questions and Answers on Marijuana Grow-Ops

Why should I be concerned?

Many houses used for marijuana grow operations are extremely dangerous as
large amounts of electricity, fertilizer and water are used in the grow
process.

In an effort to hide a grower's intentions, electrical re-wiring is most
often performed by an untrained or unlicensed electrician. In many cases
the wiring is diverted around the original house meter creating a dangerous
situation.

Other reasons for concern include:

- - High risk of house or electrical fires

- - Increased criminal activity in neighbourhood

- - Possibility of mistaken address - grow rips

- - Carbon monoxide poisoning

Where do I find a grow operation?

Every community is at risk. Any neighbourhood. Any block. Any house
(including the expensive/high end residences).

What should I look for?

Supplies/Garbage - Halogen lights, fertilizer, pots, soil and other items
often left in the garbage or in dumpsters near the home.

Covered windows - Windows are covered or painted black to keep natural
light from disturbing the growing process or the lights or to keep
neighbour from peering inside.

Condensation - Intense heat or high humidity may be visible in some areas
or on the windows

Bright lights - Lights maybe turned on for long periods of time or at odd
hours. There may also be an attempt to hide lights, or glare they emit,
from view by covering windows.

Yard - Signs ( "private," "beware of dog", etc) , fences, large shrubs or
trees and other objects are often used to detract attention from the property.

Odour - The smell of marijuana is distinct, especially in a grow operation.
The grower will usually ventilate with fans that mask the odor.

Don't assume that because you live in a high-end or "nice" neighbourhood
that you are immune from having a grow-op show up in your neighbourhood.
There have been increases in the sale of high-end homes in "nice"
neighbourhoods that have been purchased solely for the purpose of growing
marijuana.

Here are some tips to keep your neighbourhood safe:

Get to know your neighbour - Start a Neighbourhood Watch committee,
everyone should look out for one another. If you suspect suspicious
activity in your neighbourhood report it to the police or to Crime Stoppers.

It takes community involvement to effectively decrease the marijuana grow
operations in our city.

If you want more information, check the following website:
www.city.nanaimo.bc.ca (click on bylaws) and then link to nuisance
properties (grow-ops) for more information on previous grow operations in
Nanaimo.

Next Week: Tips for landlords on preventing grow-ops from showing up in
their rental homes.