Cannabis can be dangerous to anyone under the legal age limit and should not be consumed. It is important to know how to store these products safely in your home and how to respond in case of an emergency.
Safe Storage
Safe storage of cannabis is crucial for parents to prevent accidental ingestion by children and pets, as products like edibles often look, smell, and taste like candy or treats. The primary goal is to keep all cannabis products—including flower, concentrates, and edibles—locked up, out of sight, and out of reach.
Treat cannabis products like medications. Keep them out of reach and in a locked cabinet, medicine box or safe. Always keep them in their original, child-resistant packaging.
Here is what parents should know about safe cannabis storage, based on expert recommendations:
- Lock It Up: Store products in a locked container, such as a safe, lockbox, or a locked cabinet.
- Keep Out of Sight/Reach: Place locked containers in high, inaccessible areas.
- Use Original Packaging: Keep products in their original, child-resistant, and labeled packaging to ensure you know the potency (THC level) and to provide information in case of emergency.
- Secure Vapes: Remove cartridges from batteries and store them upright, away from children.
- Keep Poison Control Handy: Store the Poison Help line number (1-800-222-1222) in your phone or in a visible spot in your home.
- Inventory Your Products: Keep a list of all cannabis products in your home, which can help with medical treatment in case of accidental ingestion.
In Case of an Emergency
Call a medical professional or the Minnesota Regional Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect or know your child has consumed cannabis. Cannabis can take 30 minutes to two hours to take effect, so even if your child seems fine, they still may need medical attention. The Poison Center can help you determine your next steps to care for your child. Help is free, confidential and available 24/7/365.
Signs of Accidental Ingestion
If a child or pet has ingested cannabis, watch for:
- Drowsiness or extreme sleepiness
- Balance issues or lack of coordination
- Trouble breathing or slurred speech
- Vomiting or excessive salivation (in pets)
If you suspect your child has ingested cannabis, call your local poison control center or call 911 and seek medical help immediately.
