The production of methamphetamine in home-based drug laboratories presents unique problems involving dependent children living in the home. As such, Arizona formed the DEC Program in 2000 to address problems associated with methamphetamine production in homes with children present; the result is a multidisciplinary and integrated approach that ensures a child’s well-being and safety from the initial investigation through to the prosecution. The DEC Task Force developed a model interagency protocol for the investigation of methamphetamine lab cases that involve children. After a discussion of the background of the home-based methamphetamine problem and the dangers that toxic chemicals pose for children, the mission and guiding values of the DEC Task Force and Program are described. The mission involves the protection of children exposed to the dangers of drug abuse environments and the guiding values highlight safety, collaboration, and dedication. Collaboration among agencies is integral to the success of the program. The partnering agencies include members of law enforcement, child protective services, fire department, emergency response, HAZMAT Teams, medical personnel, and prosecution. Cross training, especially between child protective services and law enforcement, is recommended for members of the DEC response team, including 40 hours of Child Forensic Interview training. Finally, an introduction to the DEC protocol is offered, which includes guidelines for initial actions, safeguarding children, on-site investigation, and prosecution. Initial actions include immediately protecting the child from further chemical exposure and conducting an interview with the child. Steps involved with safeguarding children include an immediate and automatic medical exam, including tests for exposure to chemicals and a developmental assessment. Tables are offered that provide guidelines for the protocol including the location certain procedures should take place, the appropriate timeline for completion of each procedure, and the team member responsible for each procedure. Tables, appendix