Although heroin remains the most notorious drug of choice in the city, a series of methamphetamine-related incidents show another possible spectre looming large.

Methamphetamine, or at least, the production of meth, was reportedly behind the fire that ravaged a 824 Prendergast Ave. home Thursday afternoon.

According to Captain Robert F. Samuelson, division commander of the Jamestown Police Department, the fire was likely induced by the crude and dangerous “one-pot method,” in which meth ingredients are cooked in a plastic bottle as opposed to several heated containers. The cheap and relatively quick method, also referred to as the “shake and bake” method, has essentially shifted meth production from labs to living rooms, and has no doubt sparked the outbreak of meth in the city, according to Samuelson.

“We have seen an increase in meth (cases),” Samuelson said. “It’s now easy to make … because people can make it with household (products.)”

Indeed, three meth raids were conducted in October alone, all three in residential areas of the city. While the Prendergast Avenue fire was – in Samuelson’s words – an “extreme” case of meth production gone awry, it is still a pervasive threat for any makeshift meth lab.

Meth, sometimes referred to as chalk, crank, or ice, is a crystal-like powdered substance that acts as an addictive stimulant to the brain. It can be taken orally, injected, snorted or smoked.

Rick Huber, executive director of the Mental Health Association in Jamestown, said he has seen an influx of meth addicts seeking help. And while heroin and opiate users still comprise the bulk of his addicts, Huber said meth addicts are not difficult to identify.

“With a meth addict, they have no fear and you could zap them three times with a taser and they’d keep coming,” he said. “If meth hits big here, it will make the heroin epidemic look like child’s play.”

The National Drug Intelligence Center listed the signs of meth production at a home as unusual odors; excessive amounts of trash, particularly chemical containers; windows always covered; evidence of chemical dumping, frequent visitors at unusual times; and residents acting secretive.

Samuelson credited tips from the public as being “extremely helpful” in identifying houses and apartments where meth production was taking place. He encouraged the public to contact the JPD at 483-7537 or leave an anonymous tip at 483-Tips (8477) if they notice any suspicious activity.