Leaving a vape in a cold car could damage you health – or start a fire

Leaving a vape in a cold car could be damaging to your health besides being a fire hazard, warned vaping experts. The seemingly innocent act of leaving a vape in the car during winter can lead to unexpected problems that could potentially be hazardous or costly. Most vapes are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are highly sensitive to extreme cold temperatures. While these batteries are efficient for quick charging and long life, they are not designed to withstand freezing conditions. Exposure to very low temperatures can significantly reduce the battery’s performance and prolonged exposure can cause irreversible damage. Markus Lindblad, a vaping expert from Vape Globe, cautions that in some cases, if a frozen battery is recharged without being properly warmed, it might malfunction and overheat, posing a fire risk.

The risks associated with leaving a vape in a cold car are exacerbated when using non-compliant or black-market vape devices that may lack essential safety features. The cold weather can also affect the e-liquid inside the vape, causing it to thicken, freeze, or expand, which can lead to leaks. If the liquid leaks into the car’s interior, it can stain or damage upholstery and even seep into vents or electrical components, resulting in costly repairs. Using a vape that has been exposed to freezing conditions can introduce further risks, such as inhaling poorly vaporized liquid or harmful residue from a malfunctioning coil, potentially causing respiratory irritation or discomfort.

To mitigate these risks, experts recommend keeping vapes indoors whenever possible to protect them from freezing conditions. If carrying them outdoors is necessary, storing them in an inner pocket close to your body can help prevent freezing. In the event that a device has been exposed to the cold, it is essential to allow it to return to room temperature naturally before use, as attempting to warm it quickly could cause further damage.

Insights:
This article highlights the importance of being mindful of the impact of cold temperatures on vape devices and the potential risks associated with leaving them in freezing conditions. It stresses the need to handle lithium-ion batteries with care and underscores the potential dangers of using vapes that have been exposed to extreme cold. Proper storage and handling of vape devices are essential to ensure their safety and longevity.

Summary:
Vaping experts have warned that leaving vapes in cold cars during winter can pose health risks and potential fire hazards. Lithium-ion batteries used in most vape devices are particularly vulnerable to extreme cold temperatures, which can lead to reduced performance and irreversible damage. The article emphasises the importance of storing vapes indoors and allowing them to return to room temperature naturally if exposed to freezing conditions, to prevent malfunctions and potential safety hazards.