Should I Worry About Second-Hand Vapor?
We’ve all been there at one time or another, sitting by someone in a restaurant and a trickle of vanilla flavored puffs waft over. Or you’re walking down the street and walk through somebody’s cloud of bubble gum flavored vapor. You might love it; you might hate it; but what are the risks? What is second-hand vape? Traditional, combustible tobacco cigarettes continuously burn aggressive plumes of smoke while kept lit, as well as when the user exhales. So you’re subject to the secondhand smoke the entire time the cigarette is burning. In contrast, with vaping and e-cig use, the vapor is emitted into the air only when the user exhales (i.e. there is no vapor if not in active use). The vape user must activate the device, inhale and exhale for the vapor to be released. This means e-cigarette use produces a visible vapor that is usually able to be smelled, depending on the e-juice flavors and other contents of the fluid. There are of course unflavored options, but many people choose to use an ejuice with fruit, menthol or tobacco flavors. Is second-hand vapor safe? According to a report on TreatTobacco, “This assessment revealed no significant risk of harm to human health from e-cigarette emissions. In contrast, the tobacco smoke analyses mostly exceeded risk limits (McAuley et al., 2012).” Much about the long-term effects of vapor are still to be determined. Here at V2, we are always looking for the most reliable and effective information to share and will relay that when available. For now, keep the vapor from anyone who may have any health issues where it could aggravate a condition, like asthma or emphysema, out of courtesy and respect. When you’re vaping in public, be respectful. When vaping near others or in public places be sure to use Vaping Courtesy and Common Sense. We suggest you always take time to be aware of your surroundings. Look for No Smoking AND No Vaping signs. Are there large groups of people that may be bothered by the scent of your vapor? Move to an uncongested area, or look for other vapers to congregate with. Have you had any experiences with issues due to second-hand vapor?