A suspected methamphetamine lab in Tamaqua drew fast and furious response from firefighters and law enforcement Monday morning. Officials wanted to control the situation as quickly as possible, due to the danger to the entire neighborhood. Even a small amount of meth can be deadly to the people making it and the greater community at large.

That's because while making the illegal version of the drug has become easier, the process still involves the use of chemicals including explosives, corrosives and chemicals. Fumes, vapors and spillage involved in the "cooking" of meth can be toxic. There is always the threat of an explosion and fire, which could release even more toxins into the air in addition to the damage that would be caused.The four people arrested on Monday include Travis Boerner, 24, and Desiree Cramer, 21, both of 227 Lafayette St., Tamaqua; David C. Miller Jr., 24, of 65 Sunny Drive, MaryD; and Taylor Skwait, 19, of 225 Peacock St., Pottsville. All four were arraigned on two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture/deliver, conspiracy and reckless endangerment, while Boerner and Cramer were also charged with child endangerment due to the presence of their six-month-old daughter.District Judge Stephen Bayer set bail for both men, Boerner and Miller, at $50,000 straight cash bond, while both women, Cramer and Skwait, had their bail set at $25,000, also straight cash. During the arraignment, Bayer noted he was familiar with Miller, Boerner and Cramer, who all have criminal records. Cramer is out on bail in an unrelated drug matter; Boerner was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia in Coaldale in June; while Miller has an outstanding warrant for his arrest, issued by Bayer.Tamaqua Police Chief Richard Weaver praised volunteer firefighters, who were the initial responders to a call for an odor complaint. The chief also noted the involvement and professionalism of the Pennsylvania State Police Clandestine Lab Response Team, who processed the scene and neutralized the chemicals. Weaver also pointed out it was concern from a resident that resulted in the dismantling of the suspected meth lab. "We need the public's help in dealing with these types of situations. These small meth labs are popping up all around us, Tamaqua is no exception. Let us know when you suspect criminal activity," Weaver said.The U.S. Department of Justice said signs of meth distribution are: unexpected new wealth, frequent visitors, late night/early morning meetings, borrowing money for short periods of time, rooms or parts of rooms in a residence becoming off limits, an increase of packages in the mail on a routine basis and unusually strong chemical odors, such as ether, ammonia and acetone.Anyone who suspects there is a meth house in their neighborhood should contact police.