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An Explosive Habit: E-Cigarettes And You

26 January 2017

Christopher Wilson

E-cigarettes are increasingly popular, with users claiming that they are healthier than traditional cigarettes. Instead of burning tobacco, as a regular cigarette would, these devices use a liquid that contains nicotine. This liquid is vaporized using a battery, thus the nickname 'vaping". Unfortunately, the jury is still out on how much safer these types of cigarettes are in comparison to traditional cigarettes, if they are in fact any safer. Unfortunately, those who are seeking a safer (and in some cases less expensive) alternative to cigarettes may instead find themselves in more immediate danger. Read on to learn more about the dangers of e-cigarettes.

Exploding Batteries

The incidents of battery explosions and fires have increased with the use of these power sources for everything from cell phones and laptop computers to "hover-boards" and e-cigarettes. It may seem surprising that something so small, such as the batteries that power the vaporization of an e-cigarette, could cause much damage, but they do. The Food and Drug Administration have reports of 134 incidents involving e-cigarette batteries in a time period of about 7 years.

Serious Injuries

Though small, the damage caused by these e-cigarette batteries can be extensive. They may begin to spark unnoticed in a pocket, then catch the users clothing on fire, causing extensive burns requiring hospitalizations, skin grafts, and months of rehabilitation. Most burns leave scars, so this is not a minor injury situation that can be easily remedied. Additionally, some users have reported that the e-cigarette actually exploded in their mouths, causing extensive damage to their gums, tongue and teeth.

What is causing these malfunctions?

In many cases, the fires and explosions are linked to improper ventilation in the lithium battery compartment. Pressure is allowed to build and cause these dangerous fires and burns. Many questions remain about whether or not the e-cigarette itself is the problem, the batteries or the particular set of circumstances that led to the incident.

Safety Tips for Vaping

1. Choose the right size battery for your unit; know what you need and don't cut corners with cheaper alternatives.

2. Use a smart charger instead of a traditional one, over charging can damage the integrity of the battery, causing failures. Use the correct charger for your unit; just because the USB plug fits, it doesn't mean it's safe to use.

3. Don't expose batteries to extreme temperatures.

4. Never allow batteries to be loose in a bag or pocket, secure them in the case.

5. If the battery is looking damaged or different in any way, discard it.

For those injured by these faulty devices, you may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer. Speak to a personal injury attorney, like Law Office Of Andrew J Leger Jr, right away and do your part to help ensure that e-cigarette and battery manufacturers produce a safe product for everyone.

 

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