Electronic cigarette users: Hide away the juice!

Not all regulatory bodies and expert groups agree on the risks associated with “vaping,” a term that describes the use of electronic cigarettes. However, they all agree on the fact that electronic cigarette “juices” that contain liquid nicotine can be very harmful to your health.

Unlike traditional cigarettes that contain dried tobacco, electronic cigarettes use liquid nicotine. The danger with liquid nicotine is that it is a powerful insecticide that can be lethal if swallowed or absorbed through the skin – even a dose as low as 60 mg can kill an adult. Deaths among young children have been reported in the United States and elsewhere in the world.

It is important to know that nicotine juices often have added flavours that appeal to children, and they are often sold in colourful packaging that is attractive to them as well. In addition, since e-juice manufacturing isn’t regulated, these products do not usually feature child-proof caps. Lastly, it is often difficult to know the actual nicotine concentration of the liquid, as it may not be listed on the label or may actually differ from the stated concentration.

If you’re a “vaper,” make sure to handle the juice bottles carefully when refilling your device. Wash your hands after refilling the cigarette and always store the bottles out of the sight and reach of children, even if the liquid is labelled as nicotine-free.