State Officials Urge Safe Cannabis Storage During National Poison Prevention Week

The Office of Cannabis Management provides guidance to prevent unintentional exposures.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:19am

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During National Poison Prevention Week, the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is urging residents to practice safe cannabis storage in their homes. The OCM says children and pets are especially vulnerable to the effects of cannabis, which could require medical attention if accidentally ingested. The agency is providing safety recommendations such as keeping cannabis products locked, out of sight, and out of reach from children and pets.

Why it matters

As New York's legal cannabis market continues to mature, protecting families and preventing unintentional exposures remains a top priority for state officials. Promoting safe storage practices can help support the health and safety of communities across the state.

The details

The OCM is recommending that cannabis users keep products in their original child-resistant packaging, store them securely in locked containers out of sight and reach of children and pets, and properly dispose of cannabis waste. Officials say while all regulated cannabis sold statewide is required to be packaged in child-resistant containers, safe storage at home remains essential to prevent accidental ingestion.

  • National Poison Prevention Week is March 19-25, 2026.

The players

Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)

The state agency overseeing New York's legal cannabis market and responsible for promoting safe practices to prevent unintentional exposures.

John Kagia

Acting Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management.

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What they’re saying

“Protecting New York's families continues to be a top priority as the legal cannabis market continues to mature. By promoting safe storage practices and clear guidance about responsible cannabis use, we can help prevent unintentional exposures and support the health and safety of communities across the state.”

— John Kagia, Acting Executive Director, Office of Cannabis Management

What’s next

The Office of Cannabis Management will continue to educate the public on safe cannabis storage practices throughout National Poison Prevention Week.

The takeaway

As New York's legal cannabis industry grows, state officials are proactively working to protect families and prevent accidental exposures, especially among children and pets, by promoting secure storage of cannabis products in the home.