Our narcotics officers placed a small bottle of mercury into evidence. Can mercury explode? How do I store it?

Mercury is not commonly seen today. In the early 80's and late 70's Mercury was a catalyst in the making of methamphetamine and cocaine. In the refining process the Mercury was extracted. For the last 10 years Aluminum foil has become the common catalytic agent.

Mercury is volatile because of its rapid expansion when heated. Care should be taken to store Mercury in a controlled environment. Mercury is an extremely toxic substance. It can be absorbed through the skin. Once absorbed it clings to cells in the body - - - the health consequences can be devastating. Mercury is a very toxic hazardous material. To store, place padding around the initial container and set inside another container. An arson collection can is preferred, but an empty coffee can or clean paint can will work. Place on a plastic tray on the shelf. Should you notice any leakage DO NOT TOUCH! Contact a supervisor immediately or your agency's hazardous materials expert.

I heard that storing marijuana can be dangerous. Is this true?

Marijuana that has been dried and packaged for sale is not a safety risk. However, marijuana that is green can be dangerous. First, green marijuana is often times shredded (to conserve space) then boxed and shelved. Fire danger can result if the marijuana dries faster on the outer edges than on the inner edges. When this happens the stored marijuana reacts like a compost pile and can self ignite. To avoid this possibility be sure to regularly stir the marijuana (at least once a week) until it is completely air dried. Another concern is the white fungus that grows on the marijuana when it dries. The fungus contains a parasite that can cause lung damage over the long term. If you are involved in the drying of marijuana always wear a filter mask to protect from breathing in the fungus. Marijuana should not be stored in plastic. When green marijuana is stored in garbage bags or other plastic containers it cannot dry properly. The result is a very thick (and extremely toxic) liquid goo that destroys the evidence value. Burlap bags work well for drying marijuana. 

Our agency recovered two class rings. How can I locate the owners? 

The largest companies that sell class rings are Jostens 1(800)854-7464 and Herf Jones 1(800)428-2665. Both companies will help with recovered class rings. Any information including inscriptions located on the inner side of the ring will help narrow the list of possible owners.