As the popularity of cannabis and cannabis-infused products continues to rise, ensuring responsible storage is more critical than ever. Proper storage practices help prevent accidental ingestion, especially among children and pets, who are particularly vulnerable to cannabis’ effects.
Similar to medications or household chemicals, cannabis products should always be stored safely to reduce risks.
3 Tips for Safely Storing Cannabis Products
1. Label Everything Clearly
Always keep cannabis products in their original packaging, and make sure they are clearly labeled with important information such as potency, ingredients, and warnings. Proper labeling reduces confusion and lowers the chance of accidental consumption.
2. Keep Cannabis Separate from Other Items
To avoid any mix-ups, store cannabis products away from food, drinks, or medications. Accidental ingestion and confusion between cannabis and non-cannabis items are prevented by taking this measure.
3. Use Locked, Child-Resistant Storage
Store your cannabis in a secure, locked container that meets child-resistant standards. Place the container out of sight and reach—high shelves or locked cupboards are great options. Keeping these products inaccessible ensures that curious children or pets don’t stumble upon them.
By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of unintentional consumption, especially among children and pets, who are highly sensitive to cannabis’ psychoactive ingredients.
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Why Safe Storage is Critical: The Risks for Children and Pets
Children and pets are especially at risk when it comes to accidental cannabis ingestion. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive effects, can be harmful to their developing systems. Even small amounts of cannabis can cause serious side effects in kids and animals.
Symptoms of Cannabis Poisoning in Children
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Difficulty walking
- Confusion
- Trouble breathing
Symptoms of Cannabis Poisoning in Pets
- Loss of bladder control
- Trembling
- Vomiting
- Extreme lethargy
- Unsteady walking
- Excessive drooling
- Labored or irregular breathing
If you suspect your child or pet has ingested a cannabis product, it’s crucial to act immediately.
What to Do in Case of Cannabis Ingestion
If you think a child or pet has consumed cannabis or a cannabis-infused product, follow these steps:
Call Poison Control
For children, contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222, available 24/7. For pets, reach out to the Pet Poison Helpline. These services provide expert advice tailored to your situation.
Provide Vital Information
Be ready to share details like the type of product consumed, how much was ingested (if known), and the individual’s age or weight. This information will help medical professionals guide you toward the appropriate care.
Stay Calm
It’s natural to feel anxious, but staying calm will help you make better decisions and assist in managing the situation.
Assess the Situation
Check for immediate signs of distress or severe symptoms. If the condition appears serious, such as difficulty breathing or seizures, call 911 immediately for emergency help.
Ongoing Prevention: Educating and Storing Responsibly
The best way to prevent accidental ingestion is through education and safe storage. Make sure all family members, including children, understand that cannabis products are not to be consumed without permission. Keep cannabis stored securely to avoid any unfortunate accidents.
Final Thoughts
By taking simple steps to label, lock, and separate cannabis products, you can help keep your family and pets safe. Responsible storage isn’t just about preventing accidents—it’s about protecting the ones you care about.
For more information, visit the CDC’s cannabis resource page.