Information packet warns residents of meth danger

Local organizations and concerned citizens who want to learn more about methamphetamines and meth production will soon get their chance.

John Sachen, hazardous materials officer for the Delta Fire Protection District, will provide a condensed version of his nationally-recognized meth awareness program to local communities.

"We have a lot of people who are concerned about meth labs," Sachen said. "My feeling is we can do something here. Put something together for community awareness."

Sachen said he will try to offer around five or six 90-minute classes, likely in the evening, to members of surrounding counties.

The class will include slide shows and a 20-page packet for all attending members. The main difference from the original awareness book will be the omission of police and firefighting procedures concerning meth awareness.

"The class will teach the driving force behind it," Sachen said, "and how to detect if it's probably being manufactured in their area."

Other important topics for discussion will be meth's addictive nature, as well as why it is hazardous.

Sachen said some of the main requirements for the class will be that the group provides a location for the class, Sachen will provide projection equipment, and that each member receives a packet.

The only charge will be for the copies of the packet, which will fall on the group.

Sachen said that if a group cannot find the funds for the packets, his group will try to help find a sponsor for the program.

The program will be run through the Delta Fire Protection District. Interested parties can contact Sachen at the Delta Fire Protection District at 332-1155, or page him at 277-9911.

One reason for offering this class, Sachen said, is that meth is no longer something that is just found in rural areas. People in communities that recognize clues of a meth lab should avoid taking actions themselves, and should immediately contact authorities, Sachen said.