CALGARY – The fire department says a blaze at a northwest home last week has led to the discovery of a grow-operation.
Crews rushed to a fire at a home in the 0-100 block of Houndslow Drive N.W. on Wednesday morning.
When the fire was extinguished and firefighters were able to enter the home, they discovered a sophisticated marijuana grow-op in the basement.
A search warrant was executed by police, who seized 957 pot plants with a potential street value of $1.2 million.
Investigators believe an illegal electrical bypass may have been what sparked the blaze.
The home has been declared unfit for human habitation, and fenced off from the community.
Get daily National news
In the wake of the discovery, the Calgary Fire Department is reminding the public of signs neighbours may be housing a grow-op.
How to spot a grow operation:
Signs of excessive humidity / sweating on the exterior of the house
Condensation on windows
Excessive moisture at the foundation
Snow melted-off the roof, while others nearby are snow-covered
Minimal exterior upkeep (gardening, mowed lawns, or snow removal)
Coming and going at odd hours and only staying for a few hours
Lights on timers
Presence of heavy deodorizers
Loud exhaust fans or the presence of unusual venting
A strong ‘skunky’ odour emanating from residence
No garbage put out on designated collection days
Guard dogs
Multiple security or ‘keep out’ signs
Who to call if you think there is a grow operation in your community:
Calgary Police Service Drug Tip Line at 403-428-8100
Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477
Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods at 1-866-960-7226
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.