DRUG LAB DANGERS TO BE OUTLINED

The threat to emergency responders from illegal drug labs has prompted the
Digby RCMP detachment to organize a presentation March 27 in the town's
fire hall.

Staff-Sgt. Phil Barrett said he has invited officers from the RCMP 'H'
Division's clandestine laboratory unit to make a presentation on the labs
as well as marijuana grow ops.

Area fire chiefs, firefighters, Emergency Health Service personnel,
municipal officials and local pharmacists have been invited to attend the
presentation.

Such laboratories pose a major threat to first responders reacting to
emergency situations, said Barrett, and police recognize that education of
first responders and emergency personnel is a major part of the clandestine
laboratory unit's mandate.

Chemicals used in clandestine laboratories pose a serious threat to the
health and life of emergency responders if handled carelessly or
improperly. The financial profits in manufacturing and trafficking in
illegal drugs make the risks worthwhile to some people.