With the cannabis industry’s biggest holiday on the horizon, it’s a good time for a reminder about how to consume responsibly. Read through this guide to have a fun and safe 4/20. Thoughtful consumption in a regulated market makes the industry and communities stronger for all.
Step 1: Where to Buy
Consuming responsibly starts with purchasing responsibly – always shop from a legal, licensed dispensary to support local businesses and to ensure the products you purchase have undergone required testing, are free of checked contaminants, and are properly packaged and labeled. To find a licensed dispensary near you, check out DCR’s Retail Map.
Step 2: What to Buy
There are several factors to consider when purchasing cannabis products, mainly your preferred form of consumption and what type of effect you want. Be aware that depending on the product type, the effects will differ as far as the time it takes for the effects to kick in, and the duration in which the effects last. Edibles and beverages, for example, are known to take hours to kick in, but the “high” may last longer than vaping or smoking flower–which may only take a few minutes to take effect. Going slow before deciding to reach for more is best, especially if you are new (or it’s been awhile) to consumption.
No matter how you consume, you should always start low and go slow. Check the product label for THC content, as higher THC = stronger psychoactive effects. The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) recommends lower-potency products, like flower with less than 20% THC and edibles with 5mg of THC per serving. If you don’t feel “high” right away, don’t rush to take more. For ingestibles, wait at least two hours, and for inhalants, 30 minutes.
Lastly, ask the dispensary workers questions – they’re there to help! They can provide information about products and make recommendations best suited for your preferences.
Step 3: Keep it “private”
Generally speaking, cannabis can only be used on private property. Per the California Health and Safety Code, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public and is subject to fines. This ban includes street corners or your car. And, if you are a renter, check your rental agreement to see if there’s any restrictions. Keeping these in mind, consumption can still be fun! Surround yourself with people you trust, or if you prefer you can have a solitary 4/20 observance. Either way, make sure to have your supplies on hand, ensure you don’t need to drive anywhere or have safe transportation options.
Step 4: Safe Storage
Always keep your cannabis products out of sight and out of reach. Children, pets, and even curious roommates or guests may mistake edibles or infused drinks for a regular treat. Children and dogs are especially susceptible to cannabis intoxication. To avoid this, clean up products immediately when not needed, keep the product in its original child-resistant packaging, and store your stash on a top shelf, lockbox, or coded safe.
In Case of Emergency
If you, someone you know, or an animal accidentally ingests cannabis, contact Poison Control.
- Poison Control: (800) 222-1222
- Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
If you feel as though you’ve overconsumed, try to stay calm. While the effects of the drug should wear off after a few hours, contact 911 if you’re in distress and in need of assistance. Hydrate, take deep breaths, and rest in a safe place.
Tips & Important Reminders
- We’ll say it again: start low, go slow! You can always take more later, but you can’t take it back once it’s been done.
- Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol, tobacco, or other intoxicating substances.
- Drive high, get a DUI. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and holds the same penalties as driving drunk.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for health, safety, or medical decisions. Cannabis remains a schedule 1 controlled substance under federal law. DCR does not encourage cannabis consumption; consume at your own risk. For more information on the health and safety risks, see here.