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Will cannabis be a part of your holiday celebrations?

Turkey, stuffing, pecan pie and perhaps a curry or Asian noodle dish may be served up at many holiday parties across BC this year. What about alcohol and cannabis?

If you’re hosting a party, it's your job (actually, your mission) to make sure guests have a good time. But you're also responsible for their well-being. Here are some must-know tips and things to consider for a safe and merry celebration.

1

Put safety first:

In general, encourage guests to not overuse in ways that may lead to harm.
2

Plan safe rides home:

  • In the invite and before your party, encourage your guests to plan ahead for a safe ride home or overnight stays so they’re not driving.
  • Suggest transportation options: taxis, public transit or carpooling with a designated driver.
  • Be prepared for guests who didn’t plan to consume cannabis or alcohol and end up doing it:

    • Have parking available so an impaired person can leave their vehicle.
    • Have details on hand for taxis, public transit, and carpooling.
    • Prepare for overnight stays and encourage your guest to stay over.
3

Prepare your home:

  • Ensure your driveways, walkways and outdoor stairs are clear of ice and snow.
  • Ensure there's enough space for the number of guests and provide enough food to offset alcoholic drinks and cannabis consumption.
  • If cannabis will be consumed, dedicate an appropriate space where it doesn’t infringe on others who don’t want to be exposed. That may be outside, so ensure outside spaces are safe, and have enough lighting.
4

Watch your menu:

  • Keep in mind that some of your guests might have allergies or dietary restrictions that can be harmful to them if they consume certain foods. Reach out to your guests to find out about any allergies, restrictions or preferences, and try to serve dishes without these items.
  • Labelling communal food with a list of their ingredients can also help ensure your guests are safe.
  • When it comes to edible cannabis, it’s important to understand that cannabis served in this way affects everyone differently. How much a person consumes and how quickly they consume can influence whether or not adverse effects are experienced. Effects can be felt anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, and can take up to 4 hours for the full effects to set in. The delayed onset of the high from edibles can increase the risk of over consumption.
5

Understand the liabilities as a party host if something happens:

  • A host could be found responsible for the well-being and actions of their guests both during the event and even after guests have left.
  • Personal liability insurance is covered under you home insurance and provides some protection if you are held responsible for injury or damage caused to or by your guests, but there are gaps (such as exclusions for the operation of motor vehicles).
  • If you have questions about host liability one of our expert advisors would be happy to talk to you about BCAA home insurance. To learn more call us at 1.888.268.2222.

Visit our dedicated website to learn more about cannabis and edibles in BC.