BPOA Officer Safety Alerts

Beware Harmful Acid Disguised as Water
A vehicle, which was eventually abandoned by the driver, contained suspected methamphetamine laboratory chemicals. On the floorboard, inside the rear passenger side compartment of the vehicle, law enforcement discovered two 5-gallon water cooler jugs containing clear liquids which tested pH-0 (strong acid). Both jugs were factory sealed and capped. Factory printing was present on the clear plastic sealing. Also in the back seat, was a factory sealed 1-liter size clear plastic bottle, factory labeled "Ciel" brand drinking water. The label indicated in "English" that it was bottled by the "Coca Cola Company". The bottle contained a clear liquid which tested pH-0 (strong acid). An analysis revealed that the pH-0 liquid present in the container was hypophosphorous acid. Hypophosphorous acid is incompatible with strong bases. Reacts violently with oxidizingagents, strong bases, mercury (II) nitrate and mercury (II) oxide. Do not heat above 212 F. Harmful if swallowed; inhaled; and in contact with skin. Extremely destructive of mucous membranes. Corrosive - causes burns.