PSA - SAFETY ALERT

Hey Readers:

I'm not sure if this is true or not but I thought I'd pass the Public Service Accouncement along JUST IN CASE.

SAFETY ALERT:

It has come to the attention of the National Propane Gas Association that propane cylinders are being used in the manufacturing of Methamphetamines. This drug is commonly referred to as 'crank'. Manufacturers of this illegal substance are using propane cylinders for the storage and the use of anhydrous ammonia. These cylinders have been found in many states at cylinder exchange and refilling locations as well as in hotel rooms and mobile laboratories, where the manufacturing of this illegal substance takes place.

Meth cooks are getting the propane tanks from the exchanges at Wal-Mart, Kroger, gas stations, etc. and emptying them of the propane. They are filling them with anhydrous ammonia (which is used in their meth recipe). After they are finished with them, they return them to the store. They are then refilled with propane and sent back for you and me to buy. Anhydrous ammonia is very corrosive and weakens the structure of the tank. It can be extremely dangerous when mixed with propane and hooked up to our grills, etc. You should inspect the propane tank for any blue or greenish residue around the valve areas. If it is present, refuse to purchase that one.' If you suspect you already have one of these tanks, don't touch it. Notify the fire dept, DEA, or HazMat Emergency Response Unit immediately for disposition. Source: Check out the following website for more details. They also have pictures showing what contaminated tank valve might look like. http://www.npga.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=529