Snow has fallen across Blackburn today (January 16). While some will be making snowmen, the police force will be using the weather to shut down cannabis farms.

The police force has urged the public to remain vigilant during the frosty conditions, to help them to spot properties where cannabis is being grown.

Officers shared a list of signs that a property is being used in the production of cannabis and ‘no snow on a roof when the rest of the houses have it’ has been highlighted as an example.

This is because cannabis plants need heat to grow and the heaters used will cause the snow to melt.

A police spokesperson said: “Every day, police across the UK discover about 21 cannabis farms or factories. Nationwide, the threat from the domestic commercial cultivation of cannabis is increasing - in recent years there has been an increase in robberies, burglaries and violence linked to cannabis farms.

“In particular, there has been an increase in small-scale grow sites; domestic or residential premises are the favoured location

“If you notice some or all of the above, or are worried about drugs in your area pass the information to us. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers.”

If you suspect a property is being used in the production of cannabis, look out for signs of:

  • A strong, pungent smell coming from the property
  • Electrical wiring that has been tampered with
  • Beware of booby traps. Electrical wiring may have been rigged up to door handles etc.
  • Powerful lights left on in the house throughout the night
  • Windows blacked out
  • A sudden jump or increase in the cost of electricity bills
  • Scuffed paint or wallpaper
  • Large quantities of bin bags, full of vegetable material thrown away
  • Rewiring efforts or by-passed circuitry
  • No snow on a roof when the rest of the houses have it

Police have previously shared a photo of a property without snow on the roof, urging them to report any concerns to 101.

They said:  "If you see a roof like this it could mean there is a cannabis factory inside, the proceeds of which will help to fund organised crime.

"Give us a call on 101 and we will apply a different kind of heat to those responsible!

"Whilst you make take the view 'it is only a bit of weed, there is no harm in that' for the innocent people who are caught up in the wider issue of organised crime the effects are life changing.

"It could be happening on your street.

"We need your help to do this and we hope that you see how important this is as an issue and call us if you have any suspicions."