A first-timer's guide to edibles

When you eat or drink cannabis, it is processed through your digestive system before you feel it. That usually takes much longer than smoking, often 30 minutes to 2 hours, and the effects can last several hours.

The most common first-timer mistake is taking more because nothing seems to be happening yet. Give it time.

Public health guidance, including New York State's, recommends that new users start with a small amount and wait at least two hours before taking more. Many chocolates are scored into squares so you can take a portion rather than the whole bar.

Your first time is about learning how you respond. You can always take more another day; you cannot take less once it is in your system.

Our menu lists the strength that appears on each package, for example 'Listed strength: 500 mg'. That is the total for the whole package, not a single serving. Check the packaging for serving information before you eat any of it, and ask us if anything is unclear.

Where a strength is not listed on our menu, it is because we have not confirmed it yet. We would rather say so than guess.

A few simple habits make the experience better:

• Try it at home or somewhere comfortable, with time to spare
• Eat a normal meal and keep water nearby
• Do not mix with alcohol, especially the first time
• Never drive or operate machinery after consuming
• Have someone you trust around if you are nervous

Chocolates and drinks look like ordinary treats. Keep them in their original packaging, out of sight and reach of children and pets, ideally in a locked container.

Feeling too high is uncomfortable but usually passes. Move somewhere calm, sip water, eat something, and rest. The feeling will fade with time.

If someone has trouble breathing, chest pain, or cannot stay awake, call 911. For advice, Poison Control is available 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222. Call them right away if a child or pet eats an edible.