Riverhead CAP is offering free locking storage bags for safe cannabis storage at home, to protect children and pets from ingesting the substance, which can be toxic and require emergency medical attention.

The locking storage bags will be provided to Riverhead area residents over 21. To request a bag, call CAP at 631-727-3722 or complete a quick Google form in English or Spanish to have a bag discreetly mailed to you. 

“No matter your view on adult cannabis use, I think we can all agree that children and teens should not have access to it,” said CAP Executive Director Felicia Scocozza said. 

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood may harm the developing brain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Risks include difficulty learning and problem solving, increased risk of mental health issues, impaired driving, and potential for addiction. Compared with teens who do not use cannabis, those who do are more likely to quit high school or not get a college degree, Riverhead CAP said.

“These locking bags are a great resource to have in the home because they prevent children and pets from accidentally ingesting marijuana, potentially saving you from emergency room visits,” said Isabella Marcucci, coordinator of the Riverhead Community Coalition for Safe and Drug-Free Youth. “Requesting a locking bag is easy and judgement-free.”

Securely storing cannabis in a locked place and out of reach and sight of children and pets can help lower the risk of unintentional exposure, according to the NYS Department of Health. The Department of Health also recommends keeping cannabis products in their original packaging. Labels on cannabis products from licensed dispensaries will have important information including how much THC is in the product, which can help providers during a medical emergency. 

Children who ingest edibles may have severe reactions and are more likely than adults to require medical attention. According to America’s Poison Centers, symptoms of a cannabis edible overdose include vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, and a loss of coordination or unsteadiness. Severe symptoms of overdose can cause slowed breathing, seizure and coma.

National Poison Data System, America’s Poison Centers, reported that from 2019 to 2025, poison centers managed 38,250 cannabis edible exposure cases in patients that were 0-19 years of age. In January and February 2025, there were 1,298 cases. According to its website (poisoncenters.org) cannabis products have become more accessible in homes as the number of states with legal medicinal and/or recreational cannabis continues to grow. Edible cannabis products are easily mistaken for regular food, candy or beverages making accidental ingestion common in children and adolescents.

Call 911 immediately if someone is having difficulty breathing, is unresponsive, or having a seizure. You can reach your local Poison Center by calling the Poison Help line: 1-800-222-1222. To save the number in your mobile phone, text POISON to 301-597-7137.