Health & Safety – Responsible Cannabis Use Starts Here
Our Commitment to Safe Cannabis Retail
UpHi Cannabis Emporium is committed to education, safety, and responsible cannabis use. As a licensed St. Catharines retailer, we follow strict standards set by the AGCO, Health Canada, and the Province of Ontario. Every team member is CannSell-certified, ensuring customers receive accurate, responsible, judgment-free guidance.
We believe adults deserve clear information, safe access, and a supportive environment where questions are always welcome.
Meet the people behind the counter on our Meet the Team page.
Legal Age & Consumption Limits (19+)
Ontario law requires that all cannabis consumers be 19+.
UpHi verifies age at the website entry modal and again in-store. This protects young people and ensures cannabis is sold only to adults who are legally permitted to use it.
A few legal essentials:
- You must be 19 years or older to enter, shop, or pick up an order.
- You may purchase up to 30 grams of dried cannabis (or equivalent) per transaction.
- Cannabis must always be stored safely — ideally locked, elevated, and out of sight of children and pets.
For details on our full compliance approach, visit the Compliance Policy page.
Product Safety & Quality Assurance
Every product sold at UpHi is:
- Regulated under the federal Cannabis Act
- Tested by licensed laboratories for potency, purity, and contaminants
- Packaged with accurate labeling including THC/CBD content
- Sourced through Ontario’s legal supply chain
You can learn more on our Licensing & Compliance page.
Responsible Consumption
You know your body best — our goal is to help you make informed, responsible choices that fit your comfort level.
Here are the guiding principles we use when helping customers:
Start Low, Go Slow
Cannabis affects everyone differently. Begin with small amounts and increase gradually as needed.
Be Cautious Mixing Cannabis + Alcohol
Combining substances raises can raise impairment of both.
Never Drive Impaired
This includes driving, biking, or operating heavy equipment after consuming cannabis in any form.
Understand Onset & Duration
Each format works differently:
- Edibles: slow onset (30–120 minutes), long duration
- Vapes: rapid onset, short-to-medium duration
- Concentrates: fast, intense effects — best for experienced consumers only
None of these are inherently “safer” or “riskier” — they just require awareness and thoughtful decision-making.
Want to learn more about how UpHi came to be? Visit Our Story.
Harm Reduction & Education
We support adults making informed decisions about cannabis.
That includes:
- Encouraging questions — no topic is off-limits.
- Helping you compare strengths, formats, and onset times.
- Guiding you on safe storage, especially in homes with children, teens, or pets.
Our CannSell-certified budtenders can walk you through safe use whether you’re new to cannabis, returning after many years, or exploring stronger formats like vapes or concentrates.
If you ever need guidance, reach out through our Contact Us page.
Community & Public Health
UpHi is part of the broader Niagara community. When it comes to health and public safety, we participate in:
- Local awareness events such as 420 Niagara
- Ongoing harm-reduction education
- Conversations that help reduce stigma and safe access
We believe cannabis education should be informative, friendly, and grounded in real-world experience, not fear or propaganda.
Explore our neighbourhood involvement on the Community page.
Safe Use Tips
1. Pick your moment
Use cannabis when you have time to relax and assess how you feel.
2. Start low, go slow
Especially with edibles and concentrates.
3. Know the onset
Edibles take time. Vapes hit quickly. Plan accordingly.
4. Avoid mixing substances
Alcohol and cannabis can amplify impairment.
5. Store smart
Keep products locked away and out of reach.
6. Never drive impaired
If in doubt, wait it out — impairment lasts longer than people think.
7. Ask us anything
We’re here to help you have a safe, positive experience with cannabis.
Health & Safety FAQ
Is cannabis safe for everyone?
Cannabis is safe for most adults, however it affects people differently. New consumers should start low, go slow, and make decisions based on their comfort level. If you have personal medical questions, speak with a healthcare professional.
How much cannabis can I buy legally?
Ontario law allows up to 30 grams of dried cannabis (or equivalent) per transaction.
What’s the safest way to store cannabis?
Store cannabis locked, high, and out of reach of children and pets.
Can I mix cannabis with alcohol?
It’s not recommended. Mixing increases impairment and unpredictability.
Are edibles stronger than smoking or vaping?
Not necessarily — they’re slower and longer-lasting. Effects can be intense if too much is taken too quickly.
What about concentrates?
Concentrates are significantly more potent and are best suited for experienced consumers who understand their tolerance.
Can I drive after consuming cannabis?
No. Driving impaired is illegal and unsafe. Always wait until you feel clear and sober before getting behind the wheel.
Medical Disclaimer
UpHi provides general education only. For personal medical concerns, dosing questions, or health conditions, customers should consult a licensed healthcare professional. UpHi does not offer medical advice.