Ways cannabis users can be extra safe during this Pandemic

With the Coronavirus pandemic affecting every aspect of our lives right now I felt it was important to put out some tips based on the most current information. I did post some tips on Linkedin a few weeks ago when it was just beginning to appear in Canada but that seems like a lifetime ago now and those recommendations are outdated. I want to make sure that the whole cannabis community stays safe! From patients to employees, consumers and retailers – everyone. These suggestions are intended to keep you protected at these uncertain times until we learn more about the virus and the way it spreads. I recommend an attitude of “prepare for the worst but hope for the best”.

•  You don’t want to pass more than that joint; you could be passing a virus! So, no more sharing of joints or smoking utensils. This means vapes/bongs/pipes too.
• Make sure your hands are clean when partaking as your hands are coming close to your mouth. Also don’t touch your face, you’ll be shocked how many times most people do that every day. 
• Often cannabis users will cough when smoking, please make sure to do that into your elbow and if you see someone not doing that feel free to remind them. This is one of the top ways of spreading the virus.
• Don’t accept a joint that’s rolled by someone else. A pre-roll made with cones are ok since there is no saliva used in making them.
• Now is NOT a good time to be trying those edibles made by your friends. Use only individually packaged products.
• Stock-up on what you need to limit going to the store. This is for all things, not just cannabis. Currently cannabis retailers have been named an essential service but if things get worse it may affect the supply and delivery so make sure you have your own essentials.

And as I mentioned in my previous LinkedIn post, cannabis users are a very friendly bunch, but we need to practice social distancing (at least 2 meters apart and maybe more if the person is coughing/sneezing). At that time I suggested ways to greet each other while keeping a safe distance and now we have to be even more careful by doing the “distanced namaste bow” or the â€œKid n’ Play” greeting (for those that don’t know what that is): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXbupeaHAmE

Last thought is if you are an anxious person – watch a bit less news. If you are a complacent person watch a bit more. Try to only stress about what you can control and show kindness to each other at these unprecedented times. 

Here are some great resources for GOOD information:

Government of Canada info - https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Self-Assessment tool if you think you may have it - https://ca.thrive.health/covid19/en

If you need to see a Dr. online - MD Connected

Stay Home, Save Lives unless you are doing something essential and helping others at this time then in that case - thank you very much for what you do!