Weeding out the potentially dangerous candy from kids’ Halloween hauls has become more difficult.
Alameda police are warning parents to be extra vigilant about checking their children’s candy this year. According to NBC’s Stephanie Magallon, a child got sick after eating THC-infused candy given out at an Alameda school trunk-or-treat event.
California isn’t the only state where police are alerting parents. Pennsylvania police are sharing a similar sentiment after officers made a number of “drug-infused candy” seizures over the past week. Laffy Taffy, Airheads, Nerds and Wonka have been found to be infused with THC and psychedelic mushrooms, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
Because the wrappers look identical to the real McCoys, the candy “could easily be overlooked during the Halloween season,” a spokesman says.
The Alameda Police Department urges all parents, guardians, and caregivers to take the following precautions:
- Check your child’s candy: Look for candies that have unusual packaging, labeling, closely resemble well-known brands, or appear to be tampered with.
- Educate children: Speak with children about the importance of not consuming candies that are not in their original, sealed packaging and have not been thoroughly examined by a caregiver.
- Err on the side of caution: If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the candy, discard it.
- Report suspicious candy: If you come across candy that raises concerns, contact the Alameda Police Department right away.