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As Halloween approaches, local public-health officials have issued an unusual warning about keeping cannabis-laced candies hidden from children.
Southwestern Public Health – the health unit serving Oxford and Elgin counties – on Tuesday warned citizens to keep edible cannabis products, especially ones packaged or shaped akin to Halloween treats, “out of reach of children.”
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“Edible cannabis products often look like regular food items, making it difficult for children to distinguish between the two,” Southwestern Public Health nurse Kelly Vanderhoeven said in a statement. “The consumption of cannabis by children can lead to serious health issues, including cannabis poisoning.”
Cannabis edibles contain tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known as THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that can be harmful if consumed by children, the health unit said.
“Symptoms of cannabis poisoning in children may not appear immediately and can be dangerous, including sudden drowsiness or unresponsiveness, loss of muscle control and coordination, dilated pupils, an irregular or fast heartbeat, and slow breathing,” officials said in the statement.
Vanderhoeven said children are vulnerable to the effects of THC even in small doses, which can result in adverse effects.
Southwestern Public Health officials say adults should take extra precaution to store cannabis edibles securely and ensure all THC products are “kept in clearly labeled, child-resistant packaging, locked away and out of sight of children.” They add it’s important to dispose of unused and leftover edibles safely so children can’t access them.
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“We encourage parents and caregivers to engage in open, honest conversations with their children and teens about the risks of cannabis use,” Vanderhoeven said. “When talking to your kids, start with age-appropriate facts, encourage open questions, explain the risks and peer pressure, set clear boundaries, and model responsible behaviour.”
Southwestern Public Health officials said parents should seek medical attention immediately if they suspect a child has ingested cannabis edibles. The Ontario Poison Centre can be contacted at 1-800-268-9017 to report a poisoning.
bwilliams@postmedia.com
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