FORSYTH COUNTY, N.C. — A child ended up in the hospital Tuesday after getting hold of an edible drug, Forsyth County Sheriff's Office said.
Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough shared a video message about the service call for the child, saying the incident was "a wake-up call that could have ended in a tragedy."
He's asking for parents to talk to their children about the dangers of taking unknown substances.
"When people are trying to give sell you edibles, you have no idea what those edibles are laced in. I'm asking you please, please don't do that, and please please have a conversation with your children," Kimbrough said.
The sheriff's office didn't share the age of the child, only that they are a juvenile, meaning younger than 18.
Experts say children ages 3-5 are at the highest risk of accidental edible ingestion.
"What I don’t want is a tragedy. What I don’t want is an overdose. What I don’t want is to have to visit another parent at the hospital," Kimbrough added.
The sheriff's office said it doesn't plan to release further information about the incident. Below you'll find information on symptoms to look for if a child has ingested an edible.
What happens if a child eats a cannabis edible?
Information provided by GoodRXHealth.
Symptoms of cannabis edible ingestion in a child include:
Sleepiness (most common)
Agitation
Confusion or other changes in mental state
Higher heart rate
Difficulty breathing
Problems with coordination and balance
Red eyes
In severe cases of overdose, children can also develop difficulty breathing, seizures, and neurological impairment.
POISON CONTROL
You need to call for help immediately and can also call Poison Control for help at 1-800-222-1222.