Safe storage

High and out of sight

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newbie, keeping your stash away from curious kids and pets is important. It has been reported that hospital visits have increased over the last few years, and even veterinarians have seen an increase in visits related to accidental cannabis consumption.

So, let’s dive into some practical tips on how to keep your stash out of sight and locked up tight.

Lock it up

Keep cannabis in its original, plain, child-resistant packaging and always securely store it. Here are some simple ways to stash your stash:

1. Lockable boxes: Invest in a lockable storage box or container. These come in various sizes and can be discreetly stored anywhere in your home. Examples include a lockable cash box or fishing tackle box.
2. Combination safes: A small combination safe is a great option for those who want maximum security. You can easily store your cannabis and other valuables in one place.
3. Locked drawers/cabinets: Install a lock on a drawer or cabinet dedicated to storing your cannabis. This is an excellent option if you prefer to keep your stash in a more integrated part of your home.

Legal cannabis retailers sell a variety of lockable and secure storage options—visit here for a full list of cannabis licensees.

Learn to label

If you make any homemade products, such as brownies, always store edible cannabis separately from regular food and drinks. Make sure you store them in a well-sealed bag/container and label it to avoid confusion. Without proper labelling, even adults may not know the difference and be in for an unpleasant surprise. 

Keep it legal

Legal cannabis comes in very plain, child-resistant packaging. It is designed to be difficult for kids to get into. After every use, make sure you reseal the package properly. To learn more about legal cannabis, visit our Use legally page.

Illegal cannabis typically has flashy packaging, sometimes mimicking brand-name treats—such as copycat versions of Oreos, Cheetos, Fruit Loops and Skittles. This can be really confusing for kids who may think these are safe. 

Plus, legal edibles contain no more than 10mg of THC per package which helps to reduce the risks, as illegal cannabis can contain very high amounts of THC, the main psychoactive substance in cannabis.

Emergency room statistics show an increase in unintentional ingestion of cannabis by minors, in part due to the illegal supply of unregulated cannabis products purchased online. 

Keep it clean

Put cannabis products away after every use, even if you plan on using it right away. Always throw away waste products like ashes, unfinished joints, or pieces of edibles.

Make sure to dispose of products safely—when you are done with your cannabis products, make sure to dispose of any packaging, leftover product or paraphernalia away from kids or pets—like a locked garbage bin or in its original and legal packaging. Some retail locations will have recycling options and you can also blend cannabis with water and add to any compostable materials.

Hide it

Keeping your cannabis out of sight is a simple way to ensure the safety of your kids and pets. Here are some creative hiding spots:

1. Designate a high shelf: Choose a high, out-of-reach spot in your home to store your cannabis. A top shelf in a cupboard or a high cabinet can work wonders in keeping it hidden.
2. Diversion safes: Use everyday items that double as safes, like a secret compartment in a household object. These are great for blending in with your regular belongings.
3. Behind closed doors: Hide your stash in less obvious places, like inside a closet, behind a row of clothes, or in a less-used room. The goal is to keep it out of sight and out of mind for curious kids and pets.

PS: Keep in mind that your storage methods may need to change as your children grow up. What’s safe storage for young children may not work for older children or teens.

Do you know the signs?

According to Health Canada, the symptoms of cannabis consumption in children can vary, depending on what they consumed, how much, as well as the child’s size. Symptoms can be serious.

Children

If you suspect your child has taken cannabis in any form, call the Poison Control Centre at 1-800-332-1414. Add this number to your phone, allowing you to connect with the Centre quickly if something unexpected happens.

Pets

Pets are especially vulnerable because they can suffer poisoning from eating any part of the actual plant (including the leaves, seeds, stems and flowers), and eating a single discarded joint can result in a costly vet visit!
If you suspect your pet has consumed cannabis, call your veterinarian.