MIL-OSI Canada: People urged to be prepared, stay safe this Halloween

As Halloween approaches, the Province is reminding parents and caregivers to be on alert and check all candy and treats their kids receive to ensure no cannabis products were accidently handed out.

The dangers posed to young people by illegal, colourful packaging are frequently compounded by a high THC concentration in the unregulated product. All legal cannabis producers must follow strict packaging and labelling rules to ensure products do not appeal to children and youth.

In British Columbia, only adults 19 and older may purchase, possess and consume non-medical cannabis products. Strict penalties are in place for those who sell or provide these products to minors.

Some tips for parents and caregivers while checking candy and treats include looking for labels such as “THC” or “Cannabis” and discard any suspicious items. If anything seems off, people are encouraged to report it to the police immediately.

It is also important that partygoers plan a safe ride home if they consume cannabis or alcohol as part of Halloween celebrations.

Quick Facts:

• Since Canada legalized non-medical cannabis in October 2018, B.C. has implemented a zero-tolerance framework for specific drugs, including cannabis for new drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program.
• The Province has extended administrative driving prohibitions to cover drug-affected driving.

Learn More:

To learn more about a recent seizure of counterfeit cannabis-laced candy bars on Vancouver Island, visit: https://bc-cb.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=2087&languageId=1&contentId=85905

To learn more about impaired driving laws in B.C., visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/roadsafetybc/high-risk/drugs-alcohol

To learn more about cannabis regulation in B.C., visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/public-safety/cannabis