Lodging establishments have a large stake in preventing meth-related activity from taking place on their premises.

Failure to detect and take steps to prevent methamphetamine use, distribution, or - especially - manufacturing in their facilities can expose owners to legal and financial liability for harm done to other guests as a result of the meth activity.

As a manager or owner of a hotel, motel, or inn, what can you do to prevent meth on the premises and in the community?

Use the information on this card to point you in the right direction. Then, get involved!

The damaging effects on meth activity on lodging establishments:

• Attracts criminal activity - car theft, prostitution, gang activity, violence, vandalism
• Contaminates the environment - residue from meth can contaminate bedding, drapes, and furnishings
• Poses safety hazards for employees and guests - fire and explosions, burning of the eyes, lungs, and skin from residue
• Gives establishments a bad reputation

In addition, liability poses the potential for extreme financial consequences:

• Business managers can be held responsible for damages or injuries caused by third parties.
• Injuries to employees or their exposure to residue or used needles increases workers' compensation claims.
• The cost of decontaminating a building that has housed a meth lab is substantial.
• The survival of the business may be at risk. Establishments that do not take steps to correct meth-related problems can be shut down.

Warning signs of a meth lab on the premises:

• Chemical containers, empty packages of cold medication, jugs, or glassware with residue in them found in the trash containers in a room.
• Vents in room disturbed or blocked with towels or plastics in an effort to block smells or hide drugs for someone else to pick up.
• Discarded needles found under mattresses or cushions.
• Items that are "out of place" for no apparent reason.

SAFETY TIP: Use reinforced-tipped gloves for housekeeping to prevent needle pricks.

Steps you can take to protect your premises from meth activity:

• Show the employees that you are partnering with Partnership Carson City by displaying our decals and posters
• Provide training that includes information for your employees about:



• methamphetamine, addiction, safety precautions, and the costs to business
• the benefits of meth prevention for your business and for them
• what to do if they suspect someone is using meth or purchasing or stealing merchandise that could be used to manufacture methamphetamine
• Have housekeepers lift up mattress or couch edges to check for discarded needles before tucking in the sheets
• Have housekeepers check vents for clockage with towels, plastics, or other items
• Require visitors to use main entrances
• Cancel missing room keys immediately
• Perform daily room checks
• Walk halls and building perimeters
• Talk with nearby lodging establishments about suspicious individuals
• Know signs of drug-related behaviors
• Be aware of frequent short-stay visitors
• Be aware of chemical odors and staining