Cannabis in any form is toxic to children. Parents who use cannabis need to be aware of the risks. Since edibles look like regular food (gummy bears, brownies, lollipops, cookies), children can’t tell the difference. They need to be protected. Parents who use cannabis need to be aware of the risks to their children. These include:
Poisoning
- It is important that children do not eat cannabis. It can make them very sick and put them at risk of poisoning or overdose.
- Smaller children are at higher risk of poisoning because of their size and weight.
- If you think your child has swallowed cannabis, call the Manitoba Poison Centre at 1-855-776-4766 or seek medical attention right away.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number right away if your child is having difficulty breathing, trouble with coordination or is extremely sleepy.
Tips for Keeping Kids Safe
Set an example:
Kids love to watch and copy what their parents do. Whether using cannabis as medicine or for recreation, avoid consuming it in any form in front of children.
Lock it up
Parents should keep cannabis out of the sight and reach of children, if possible, in a locked cabinet. Invest in a safe, a lock box, a locking bag or have a lock put on a cupboard. It is best for any poisonous products to be stored “out of sight and locked up tight.”
Store your guests’ purses, coats or bags that have cannabis products in a secure (locked) place while they are in your home.
Label it
Keep all medicine and other drugs in their original, child-resistant packaging. If it is not in its original packaging, make sure to label it.
Clean it up
Put cannabis products away after every use, even if you plan on using it again later.
Always throw away waste products like ashes, unfinished joints or pieces of edibles.
Talk to older kids
If you use a babysitter, ensure they are mature, responsible and recommended by someone you trust. Ask them not to bring cannabis, alcohol or any other harmful substances into your home.
Make sure teens and friends are aware of the danger of cannabis to young children. Share this article with them.
Second-Hand Cannabis Smoke
Second-hand cannabis smoke may cause some of the same health problems as second-hand tobacco smoke. It is harmful for everyone, especially pregnant people, babies and young children.
Children exposed to second-hand cannabis smoke are being exposed to the active chemical THC. The THC enters your child’s body where it can remain for weeks.
Cannabis smoke can affect babies’ and young children’s alertness, understanding and judgement.
It is best to avoid smoking or vaping anything around your baby or children.
Parenting your Kids:
Using cannabis can reduce your ability to pay attention, make decisions and react to emergencies. This can affect your ability to respond to your child’s needs and keep them safe. You may not notice if your child:
- is in danger
- needs medical attention. If you are impaired, you will not be able to drive your child for care.
- needs to be comforted
- shows cues for hunger
- needs to connect, play and learn
When you consume cannabis edibles, the effects are delayed (up to two to three hours for some people) and you may end up taking more cannabis than you planned. Consuming cannabis in foods or drinks can make people feel higher than expected and the effects can last for several hours or sometimes days.
Safety tips:
- To ensure your child’s safety always have a plan in place.
- Be sure that there is always someone available who is not high to take care of your child.
Impaired Driving
Like alcohol, cannabis affects your judgment and ability to drive. No one should ever drive impaired. Know the law.
For more information on cannabis, see:
- Addictions Foundation of Manitoba- Weeding out the Facts
- Manitoba Health- Cannabis
- Is cannabis safe during preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding? – Canada.ca
