Happy 4th of July! Whether you are enjoying Independence Day by going on vacation, visiting the lake, or staying cool at home, there are precautions you should be taking. Don’t drive impaired by drugs or alcohol, and If you use medications or medical marijuana, you should make sure they are secure and out of reach of children and pets.

When traveling with medications, including stimulants such as Adderall, keep them in their original labeled container. Since it is illegal for you to be in possession of controlled medications that aren’t prescribed to you, it is important that you have the prescription bottle with your name on it. This will also help you to identify the pills and recognize any warnings that may come with that prescription. Never travel with pills in a plastic bag. Prescriptions should remain out of reach of children, pets, and guests to avoid theft or accidental consumption. If you suspect that a child has taken a pill, especially a stimulant or opioid, watch them for symptoms and call Poison Control. They will assist you with any concerns and instruct you on necessary next steps.

If you have any cannabis products with you at home, on the road, or at the lake, make sure they are kept in a safe and secure location. Keep edibles away from other food products to ensure they aren’t confused for non-cannabis snacks. If you suspect a child has ingested any cannabis products, take the same precautions you would with prescription medications. THC levels can vary from product to product and can determine the severity of the symptoms that may occur. High THC potency can cause symptoms such as vomiting, rapid heart rate and anxiety.

Medications, cannabis products, and alcohol can cause impairment. If you feel different, you drive different. This applies to driving a car, a boat, ATV, and other vehicles. Driving impaired is a danger to you and others around you. Being impaired and swimming is another summertime concern. Medications, cannabis, and alcohol impact your motor skills and reaction times, making fun activities like swimming dangerous.

Before you enjoy your activities, understand the side effects and potential dangers of what you are taking. If you will be driving or swimming, don’t take something that will cause you to be impaired. If you have kids who will be out with friends this summer, make sure they are aware of the potential dangers of these substances as well.

CCSAPC is a group of individuals dedicated to making Carter County a safer place by addressing substance use and abuse through prevention efforts. CCSAPC meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at the Ardmore Public Library. Come to a meeting to learn how you can get involved

with supporting your community! For more information follow CCSAPC on Facebook @CCSAPC or email us at CCSAPC@gmail.com.