Incident Overview

Eleven students were hospitalized after ingesting edibles made with suspected cannabis Tuesday morning in Washington Heights on the South Side. Chicago Fire Department officials responded to Fort Dearborn Elementary, 9025 S. Throop St., for multiple overdoses around 9 a.m. Tuesday, a spokesperson with the fire department said.

Response and Medical Attention

The students were all taken to hospitals in good condition, officials said. This swift response was crucial in ensuring the students received the medical attention they needed promptly.

Cause of the Incident

In a letter to parents and guardians, Fort Dearborn principal Kimberly Porter shared that the students may have ingested edibles suspected to be made with cannabis. This information is critical as it highlights the potential dangers of consuming unknown substances, especially those that could be laced with harmful ingredients like cannabis.

School’s Stance and Advice

“Prohibited substances of any kind are not allowed at our school, and we encourage you to take this opportunity to have a conversation with your child about the health risks associated with consuming edibles, and to remind them not to accept food if they do not know where it came from,” Porter wrote. This stance emphasizes the importance of awareness and open communication between parents, guardians, and children about the risks associated with such substances.

Safety Measures and Future Precautions

The incident serves as a reminder for schools and communities to reinforce education on drug safety and the dangers of unknown substances. By doing so, they can work towards preventing similar incidents in the future.

Conclusion

The incident at Fort Dearborn Elementary highlights the need for vigilance and education regarding the consumption of edibles and other substances, especially among young individuals. It is crucial for schools, parents, and the community to work together to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

FAQs

• Q: How many students were affected?
  • A: Eleven students were hospitalized after ingesting edibles made with suspected cannabis.
• Q: What was the condition of the students when they were taken to the hospital?
  • A: The students were all taken to hospitals in good condition.
• Q: What are the school’s thoughts on the incident?
  • A: The school emphasizes that prohibited substances are not allowed and encourages parents to discuss the health risks with their children.
• Q: What can be done to prevent similar incidents?
  • A: Reinforcing education on drug safety and the dangers of unknown substances can help prevent similar incidents in the future.