The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office recognizes April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. It is important for parents and communities to work together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention services can help parents and other caregivers protect children and strengthen families.
Child healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, and emergency medical providers are seeing a rise in cannabis-related poisonings involving children who have accidentally ingested food items containing cannabis. These items, which can include food or liquid, are commonly referred to as “edibles.” Edibles pose a major risk to children, as they are often sold in enticing packaging, are designed to resemble candy or other sweets in both taste and appearance, and can contain varying levels of THC (the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis).
When ingested by children, cannabis edibles can cause serious harm, including hospitalization or death. Signs of THC poisoning may include seizures, severe altered mental status, unresponsiveness, breathing issues, low blood pressure or fast heart rates.
If a child ingests these edibles, call 911 immediately.
To prevent accidental ingestion of such items, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office urges all members of the public to store edibles safely out-of-reach from children. The edibles should be hidden and labeled in a locked container away from regular food and drink.
Parents and caregivers are also reminded that ingestion of edibles can also occur outside the home. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to educate family and friends about safe storage and to be vigilant about possible exposure to edibles in the homes of friends or family.
Anyone with any information regarding child abuse or endangerment may contact the Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200.
