OHIO — The holidays are a time for families to get together and indulge in all the treats that come it.

Now that Ohio is in its first year of legally selling and purchasing recreational marijuana, officials are urging residents to stash away their cannabis, especially away from children, as it poses a danger to their health.

More than 500 Ohio children under the age of 6 were exposed to edibles from January 2024 to November 2024, putting the state on track for a 30% increase in edible exposure among young children compared to last year, according to the Central Ohio Poison Control Center.

Additionally, a recent study from Nationwide Children’s Hospital showed there’s been a sharp rise in delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure, especially in children across the country. The study shows the rate delta-8 THC exposure reported to poison control centers increased by nearly 80% from Jan. 1, 2021 to Dec. 31, 2022.

“As we make plans to gather with family and friends this holiday season, it’s important for Ohioans to understand and follow all cannabis regulations and always keep safety top of mind,” Ohio Division of Cannabis Control Superintendent Jim Canepa said in a release. “Understanding the laws with regard to usage and taking the proper steps to ensure cannabis stays out of the hands of minors will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.”

DCC-licenses dispensaries must sell child-resistant, non-enticing, tested packages, according to the DCC. However, despite the safety measures, it’s possible for children to access and consume the products. Canepa also warned parents to be aware of unregulated intoxicating hemp that can look like candy, which may not be in child-resistant packaging. The hemp could contain toxics that would affect the child.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows THC can affect developing brains in children, which could continue maturing until around 25 years old.

While safely storing products is a big step in protecting children, officials say it’s also important to take the following measures:

• Have a conversation about cannabis-related products. Explain what those products are and how they could be dangerous. 
• Don’t use the products in front of children, especially if they’re packaged to look like treats.
• Save the national Poison Help Line number and post in a visible place inside the home: 1-800-222-1222