E-cigarettes are becoming increasingly commonplace, with many people converting to their usage from normal cigarettes thanks to their lack of tobacco and the variety of flavours now available.

However, while they don’t use flames and searing temperatures like cigarettes do, they have still been identified as a major fire risk if not used sensibly.

One reason for fires involving e-cigarettes is the potential use of incompatible chargers. These charging issues can result in batteries exploding or the e-cigarette overheating which can immediately cause a fire or combine with other elements in a room to create a fire risk. The risks around vaping tend to come from counterfeit or faulty products, and poor charging practices.

London Fire Brigade have issued some useful advice:

Batteries:

• Never let your battery come into contact with metal items such as coins or keys in a pocket/bag, this can cause a short circuit and explosion
• Store removable and spare batteries in a plastic case to prevent accidental contact and store out of reach of children
• Do not mix a battery from one supplier or product with a charger from another
• Regularly inspect your vape batteries. If the battery is damaged in any way (leaking or not functioning properly) stop using it and replace it
• Dispose of batteries carefully

Charging:

• Only use the charger that came with your vape, never charge your vape with a phone, tablet or any other charger
• Don’t charge your vape overnight, or leave it charging anywhere without regularly checking on it
• Unplug your vape once it is fully charged, do not leave it charging for an extended period of time
• Charge your vape on a clean, flat surface, away from anything that could easily catch fire, and somewhere you can clearly see it – not on a sofa or pillow where it is more prone to overheat or get switched on accidentally.

Buying the right equipment:

• Only buy vape equipment and chargers new, from reputable sellers as anything else could be dangerous
• Only use batteries recommend for your specific device as not all batteries are suitable for vapes. Don’t mix different brands of batteries, use batteries with different charge levels, or use old and new batteries together
• Only buy batteries from reputable sellers. Beware of cheap, re-wrapped or fake batteries.

Looking after an e-cigarette

• Make sure you read and understand the manufacturer’s recommendations for use and care of your device. If your vape did not come with instructions, contact the supplier
• Look for any safety markings or warnings displayed on the battery or packaging
• Do not leave the vape in extreme temperatures e.g., direct sunlight or in your car on a freezing cold night.

 

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers for your home and leisure time.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.