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Banner Poison Center reports increase in calls of kids ingesting marijuana edibles

Over the last two years, the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center in Phoenix has seen a dramatic increase in calls for young children ingesting marijuana edibles.

Managing director Maureen Roland says marijuana affects children differently than adults, causing nausea, vomiting and slowed breathing. She had this message for parents who use recreational marijuana in forms, like candy and cookies, that can be appealing to kids.

"These products can be dangerous even if you are using it safely in the home for yourself," Roland said. "Just make sure you’re not using it at home in front of a child so that they see you, and to make sure you’re keeping it locked up, out of sight, out of reach."

One child was taken to a hospital as a precaution and four others were seen by paramedics after reportedly taking gummies at a Laveen charter school on Thursday. A Phoenix fire captain said school officials were investigating.

Lindsey Collom Riley is assistant news director at KJZZ. She joined the team as a senior editor June 2022 after more than two decades of reporting and editing for print/digital news in metro Phoenix.