How to Stay Safe with Cannabis on Halloween
Halloween and cannabis go together like Freddy and Jason. Cannabis plants have been used for centuries for mystical and spiritual purposes. From witches crafting spells and potions to shamans trying to reach a higher state of consciousness. The methods for consumption may have changed over the years, but the desired effects sure haven’t.
Whether you’re looking to spark up at a friend’s Halloween party, eat a couple of edibles and watch scary movies, or unwind after a long night of trick-or-treating with your kids. There are a few tips safety tips to remember when celebrating Halloween with cannabis.
Make Sure Edibles Are Stored Away From Children
The first step in ensuring a safe Halloween with cannabis is to store your edibles securely, away from the reach of children. Cannabis-infused edibles often come in packaging that resembles regular candies or snacks, making them appealing to curious kids. To prevent accidental ingestion:
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- Use childproof containers: Store your edibles in childproof containers or lockable storage. This will make it difficult for children to access them even if they stumble upon them.
- High shelves or locked cabinets: Place your cannabis products out of sight and reach, ideally in a high shelf or locked cabinet that kids can’t access.
- Educate babysitters and visitors: If you have a babysitter or expect visitors on Halloween, be sure to inform them about the presence of cannabis products in your home and the importance of keeping them away from children.
Double Check Your Child’s Candy After Trick-or-Treating
Even if you don’t have your own cannabis products in your own house, it’s essential to be able to distinguish between regular Halloween candies and cannabis-infused edibles. While it is extremely rare for cannabis edibles to end up in your child’s candy bag, it has happened. These products come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, cookies, and more. To avoid confusion:
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- Keep them separate: Store your cannabis edibles in a separate location from your regular Halloween candy to minimize the chances of mixing them up.
- Check packaging carefully: Familiarize yourself with the packaging of your cannabis products. Most legal edibles have distinct labels, often featuring symbols like a cannabis leaf or warnings about their THC content.
- Keep original packaging: If you’ve removed your edibles from their original packaging, consider labeling them clearly to avoid any mix-ups.
What to Do if Your Child Accidentally Consumes an Edible
Despite taking precautions, accidents can happen. If you suspect or discover that your child has ingested a cannabis edible:
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- Stay calm: It’s essential to remain calm and composed to make rational decisions.
- Call for medical help: If your child is experiencing adverse effects such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, rapid heart rate, or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately. Be honest with medical professionals about what your child consumed.
- Provide reassurance: Ensure your child feels safe and comforted during the situation. Reassure them that everything will be okay.
Don’t Drive After Consuming Cannabis
Responsible cannabis use on Halloween, or any other day, includes not driving while under the influence. Cannabis can impair your motor skills, reaction time, and judgment. Plus, nothing ruins a holiday more than a fat ticket for something that could’ve easily been prevented. To stay safe:
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- Plan ahead: If you intend to consume cannabis, arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation options to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Wait it out: Cannabis affects individuals differently, and its effects can last several hours. Wait until you are sober before getting behind the wheel.
- Educate others: Encourage your friends to make responsible choices and not drive impaired.
Halloween is a time for fun, but it’s also a time to prioritize safety, especially when cannabis is involved. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable Halloweed for all!