Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. And Today’s Tip deals with chemical suicide.

Look for indicators for a chemical suicide before you open the car door and are exposed to a toxic atmosphere that could be harmful or fatal.

Last week we talked about the fire service response to these events and today we’ll talk about the law enforcement response. 

How many times have my law enforcement friends out there come across a lone car in a parking lot with a single occupant passed out inside? Your first instinct tells you they are probably drunk or under the influence of drugs. But, did you stop and consider that it could be a chemical suicide attempt?  

Several years ago everyone was all worked up over chemical or detergent suicides because they are a big officer safety risk. The hype may have died down, but the threat is still present. 

These types of suicides include detergent suicide that mix acids with sulfur based materials that can be found in any home improvement store. Other methods can include Carbon Monoxide from vehicle exhaust and poisoning by Cyanide. 

You may have had previous training that mentioned the individual may leave a note or warning. But that is assuming that the person has a conscience and doesn’t intend to hurt anyone else in the process.

Look for indicators for a chemical suicide before you open the car door and are exposed to a toxic atmosphere that could be harmful or fatal.  

Before you open the door, look for signs taped on the windows, vents in the dash taped over, a bucket on the floorboard and what looks like yellowish residue on the dash and seats of a vehicle. Remember chemical suicide can also include carbon monoxide and other chemicals that also can put you at risk. 

If you recognize any of these warning signs, keep the doors closed and call the experts from the HAZMAT team to handle the situation. They are better equipped and experienced in handling these kinds of events.  

On your next slumped over the wheel call take a second to examine the scene before you open the door. 

It just might save your life!

And that is Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham, signing off.