MONROE, Mich. — Cases of children under six years in the U.S. accidentally eating marijuana have increased dramatically from 2017 to 2021, topping out at more than 7,000 cases appearing in poison control centers during that time period.
Thirty-seven states have legalized marijuana use, making the unsafe storage cases a significant jump from 200 cases to more than 3,000 per year.
"We're seeing more and more kids accidentally ingesting cannabis-related products. So we really want to make sure that adults that use these products are using them safe and responsibly," said Chad Tolstedt, Monroe County public health director.
Tolstedt said children are unable to see the difference between drugs and candy, which can pose a threat.
"Often they're packaged like gummies, packaged like food, so (parents) should be really well aware of how this could be tempting to children and keep their things stored in a safe stored area, such as these locking bags," he said.
The Monroe County Health Department told WTOL 11 that children end up sick or in emergency rooms because parents and guardians don't keep their marijuana out of reach of kids.
Tolsted said this can lead to numerous health problems, many of which can lead to hospitalization. Those who choose not to lock it up can face possible criminal charges.
He said some of the symptoms children or animals might experience include nausea, vomiting, fatigue and stomachaches.
David Wesoloski, Monroe County public health planner, said adults can be safer by starting to use locked bags, which could keep kids out of harm and out of the hospital.
"We really want people to be safe and use these products responsibly and at the end of the day we want our kids to be healthy and safe as well," he said.