Marijuana edibles pose serious risks for children

With the legalization of marijuana in many states, the presence of marijuana edibles in households is increasing. According to a recent report by Jeff Rossen and Jovanna Billington of the TODAY show, over the last year, poison control received more than 4000 calls regarding kids and teens exposed to marijuana. Marijuana edibles pose serious risks for young children. In the form of lollipops, cookies, popular candies and brownies, they camouflage hidden ingredients. Kids and adults have a hard time distinguishing between safe treats and those infused with large doses of, THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Signs that a child in your care has been exposed to potent forms of marijuana can include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, impaired balance, seizures, severe anxiety, confusion and/or hallucinations. To keep kids safe, it’s important for adults to treat marijuana edibles as they would a prescription drug. Edibles should be stored out of reach of children. Purchasing a drug lockbox for storage can provide another barrier for little ones easily seduced by sweet treats. Teach young ones not to eat “found” snacks or those offered without their guardians’ permission.