How to spot a grow-op in your neighbourhood
Here are some tips from the RCMP about common signs of a grow-operation:
• Rental buildings (residential and commercial) are often used so criminals avoid damage to their own property.
• Residents may only be in the home occasionally for short periods of time.
• People access the residence only through the garage.
• Unusual visitor behaviour ranging from no visitors to frequent visitors for short periods.
• Windows covered with dark plastic or newspaper.
• Condensation forms on windows due to high humidity levels inside. This may also result in lack of snow on the roof in winter.
• Skunk-like odour of growing marijuana can occasionally be detected outside.
• Unusual garbage: little or no garbage or unusual items(e.g. pots and soil, fertilizer containers, wiring, PVC piping).
• Electrical equipment inside creates humming sounds.
• Hydro meter is often tampered with or bypassed.
• Grow operations may use other “props” to deflect suspicion. Some of these include: outdoor and/or indoor lights, radio and/or TV on for 24 hours, flyers left in mailbox or on the front steps, children's toys & bikes outside without children living at the residence, realty signs posted.
• A "Beware of Dog/Guard Dog" sign may be used to deter trespassing, protect against theft and avoid detection by police.
If you suspect drug activity in your neighbourhood, do not investigate. Contact your local police.
Source: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/fio-ofi/grow-ops-culture-eng.htm
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