One-Pot Methamphetamine Cooks Pose New Danger

Law enforcement in Southern Illinois are reporting that they are finding full blown methamphetamine cooks taking place in Coleman fuel cans.

The cans are testing positive for anhydrous ammonia and are under pressure causing problems, such as explosions and inhalation hazards.  Inexperienced officers have picked these items up and moved them around without knowing the dangers involved in doing this.

This method began appearing late last spring in a few states (Washington, Arkansas, Mississippi and Florida) but it is now spreading elsewhere.

Methamphetamine cooks using the “one-pot” method combine the anhydrous ammonia (or fertilizer from which it is extracted), the pseudoephedrine tablets, water, and the reactive metal (ie. Lithium) into one container from the beginning of the process. 

The idea is to reduce the amount of time needed for the overall process. The danger to subjects and to law enforcement is due to the mixing of all of the ingredients in the one container.

The concentration of products builds up the ether pressure within the sealed container to levels beyond which the containers were not built to withstand. The building pressure can create a rupture or bursting of the container exposing the ingredients within to the air. Beyond the damage from the bursting container, exposure of items such as lithium to the air then creates further explosive danger.

The growing use of the one-pot method increases the danger to law enforcement and civilians from explosions, fires, and exposure to dangerous chemicals.

It is recommended that individuals who encounter what appears to be a “one-pot” cook take all proper precautions for fire and chemical explosions and do not approach the lab.  Call law enforcement and hazmat coordinator.