Operators of meth labs have discovered the best place to cook meth, your backyard.

The Suburbs: The New Home of Meth Meth labs are no longer confined to the rural areas of America. Meth labs have now infiltrated the suburbs. Meth cooks are taking advantage of the gentle and safe "image" suburbs offer and using them as a means of cover for their dangerous and illegal operations.

More importantly, a majority of the people operating these suburban meth labs don't own the property, they rent.

The After Effects of a Meth Lab on Your Property

There is little known about the health effects of long-term exposure to contaminants left behind by former methhamphetamine labs. Property owners are advised to exercise caution and use the safest possible cleaning practices in dealing with a former meth lab property.

Cleaning Up a Former Meth Lab There are currently no official regulations on exactly how to clean up former methhamphetamine labs, particularly inside of a building. However, the following guidelines are generally followed:

* Air out the property for several days before cleanup. Proper ventilation is essential throughout the cleanup. * Use caution and wear clothing to protect your skin, such as gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection during cleaning.

* Remove and dispose of all unnecessary items. This includes all absorbent materials such as or lab equipment leave the area and contact your local law enforcement agency carpeting, draperies, blankets, clothing, etc. If you find suspicious containers or fire department.

* Clean all surfaces such as walls, ceilings, counters and floors using household cleaning methods and proper personal protection. If a surface has visible contamination or staining, complete removal and replacement of that surface section is recommended.

* After a surface has been cleaned, painting should be considered. This will add a barrier between the contaminated surface and anyone who may come in contact with it.

* Clean the ventilation system by replacing all of the air filters, removing and cleaning vents, and thoroughly cleaning the system's ductwork. Also clean the surfaces near system inlets and vents.

* Often, the dangerous waste products created during the manufacture of meth are dumped down drains, sinks and toilets. If a chemical odor is coming from the plumbing, do not attempt this cleanup yourself. Contact a professional plumber.

* Some meth labs require soil and/or groundwater cleanup as well, depending on the extent of how and where chemical wastes were managed.

* After cleanup is completed, continue to air out the property for three to five days before considering letting anybody occupy the space.

* It is advisable to have the property tested for contamination levels after cleanup is completed. This is an expensive option, but it can provide peace of mind and if the property is to be rented, testing can help to avoid liability issues. Until the former lab is cleaned up, no one should enter the area without appropriate protective equipment and no one should rent, purchase or occupy the property.