Emergency Numbers
Critical Safety Topics
These are non-negotiables. Understanding these keeps you and others safe.
If You Take Too Much
Don't panic. This is uncomfortable but not dangerous.
Stay Calm
Remind yourself: no one has ever died from cannabis alone. This feeling will pass, usually within 2-4 hours (longer for edibles).
Get Comfortable
Find a safe, quiet space. Lie down if you can. Dim lights and put on calm music if it helps.
Hydrate
Drink water or juice. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen symptoms.
Try Black Pepper
Seriously—chewing black peppercorns can help reduce anxiety. The terpenes interact with THC.
Call a Friend
Having someone calm to talk to can help ground you. Let them know what's happening.
Sleep It Off
If you can, just sleep. You'll wake up feeling better. This is often the best solution.
When to seek help: If someone is unresponsive, having trouble breathing, experiencing chest pain, or having a severe panic attack they can't manage, call 911. Be honest about what was consumed—medical professionals need this information and are there to help, not judge.
Responsible Use Guidelines
Start Low, Go Slow
Begin with low doses and wait for full effects before taking more. This is especially important with edibles.
Know Your Limits
Your tolerance is personal. What works for a friend may be too much for you.
Don't Mix Substances
Combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs intensifies effects unpredictably.
Take Tolerance Breaks
Regular breaks prevent dependence and keep your tolerance manageable.
Use in Safe Settings
Consume in comfortable, familiar environments with people you trust.
Be Honest with Doctors
Your healthcare providers need to know about your cannabis use to treat you properly.
Storage Best Practices
Use Child-Resistant Containers
Keep products in original packaging or transfer to locking containers
Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Heat and light degrade cannabinoids. A drawer or cabinet is ideal.
Keep Away from Pets
Dogs especially will eat edibles. Store high up or locked.
Label Everything Clearly
Mark products with contents, potency, and date. Never mix with regular food.
Track Your Inventory
Know what you have and notice if anything goes missing.
Don't Store in Cars
Heat in cars degrades products. Plus it's often illegal to transport improperly.
Know Your Rights & Laws
Where You Can Consume
- • Private property only in most states
- • Not in public spaces, parks, or sidewalks
- • Not in vehicles (even as a passenger)
- • Not in federally-owned spaces
- • Some states have licensed consumption lounges
Possession Limits
- • Limits vary by state (typically 1-2.5 oz flower)
- • Concentrate limits are usually lower
- • Home grow limits vary (0-12 plants)
- • Exceeding limits can be a criminal offense
- • Always check your state's specific laws
Employment
- • Employers can still test and fire for cannabis use
- • Federal jobs have zero-tolerance policies
- • Some states protect off-duty use (check yours)
- • Medical cards may offer some protection
- • Safety-sensitive jobs often have stricter rules
Traveling with Cannabis
- • Never cross state lines with cannabis
- • Airports are federal property—TSA can report you
- • Within your state, transport in trunk, sealed
- • Never travel internationally with cannabis
- • Check laws of your destination, even domestically
Who Should Be Extra Cautious or Avoid Cannabis
This isn't a complete list. If you have any health conditions or concerns, consult with a healthcare provider before using cannabis.
A Note on Harm Reduction
We believe in honest, non-judgmental cannabis education. Our goal isn't to scare you away from cannabis, but to give you the information you need to make informed choices.
Cannabis has real benefits for many people, and also real risks. Understanding both helps you maximize the benefits while minimizing the risks. That's what harm reduction is all about.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis use, SAMHSA's National Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7: 1-800-662-4357