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Vaping in Vehicles: A Safe and Responsible Option

As we complete or SEMA 2024 coverage we had a lot of requests from our viewers regarding the safety of Vaping in a vehicle. Join us for TechTalk on December 3rd as we test some vapes on the “Smoke in the Box” segment featuring TechTalk host Scott Kraft and our vehicle expert April Fischer.

Vaping in Vehicles: A Safe and Responsible Option

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, offering a less harmful way to enjoy nicotine or flavored e-liquids. When it comes to vaping in vehicles, many people wonder if it’s safe and responsible. The good news is that with a few precautions, vaping in your car can be a safe, enjoyable, and practical choice for drivers and passengers alike. A shoutout to Red Vape and Neil Entwistle and his previous coverage of vaping safety in vehicles and exposing so many falsehoods that keep floating around. (https://www.redvape.com/blog/vaping-and-driving-the-facts/)


Why Vaping in Vehicles is Safer Than Smoking

Vaping is inherently safer than smoking, both for the individual and for those around them, especially in the confined space of a vehicle. Here’s why:

  1. No Combustion or Fire Hazards: Unlike cigarettes, vaping devices don’t rely on combustion, which means there’s no risk of burns, ash, or accidental fires. This makes vaping far safer to use in a car.
  2. Less Lingering Odor: Vapor doesn’t cling to upholstery or leave a strong, long-lasting smell the way cigarette smoke does. Most e-liquids produce subtle scents that dissipate quickly, making it easier to maintain a fresh interior.
  3. No Harmful Secondhand Smoke: Vaping produces vapor, not smoke, and studies have shown that the levels of harmful chemicals in secondhand vapor are significantly lower than those in cigarette smoke.

Maximizing Safety While Vaping in a Vehicle

Although vaping is generally safe, there are some best practices to ensure it remains a positive and distraction-free experience while driving:

  1. Maintain Clear Visibility:
    Choose devices that produce moderate vapor clouds rather than large ones, which can temporarily obstruct your view. Proper ventilation—such as cracking a window or using your car’s ventilation system—helps disperse vapor quickly.
  2. Minimize Distractions:
    Set up your vaping device before driving. Make sure the battery is charged, and the e-liquid is filled to avoid the need for adjustments while on the road. A ready-to-use device ensures your focus stays on driving.
  3. Safe Handling:
    Use small, portable vaping devices that are easy to handle. Compact designs, like pod systems or disposables, are ideal for driving as they are simple to use and less likely to distract you.

Keeping Your Vehicle Clean and Fresh

Vaping is much less invasive than smoking, but taking a few extra steps ensures your car stays in great condition:

  1. Prevent Residue Build-Up:
    E-liquids contain glycerin, which may leave a light film on windows over time. Regularly wiping down windows and surfaces with a gentle cleaner will keep your visibility clear and your car looking spotless.
  2. Ventilation is Key:
    Even though vapor dissipates quickly, using proper ventilation helps prevent it from lingering in the cabin or settling into fabrics.
  3. Odor Management:
    Most e-liquids have pleasant, mild scents, but if you want to keep your car completely neutral, consider air fresheners or odor-neutralizing sprays designed for vehicles.

Vaping Etiquette for Drivers and Passengers

While vaping in your car is safe, being mindful of others ensures a positive experience for everyone:

  1. Passenger Comfort:
    If you have passengers, especially non-vapers, always ask if they’re okay with you vaping. Most people won’t mind, but it’s considerate to check.
  2. Family-Friendly Practices:
    Avoid vaping in the car when children are present. Not only is this a respectful choice, but some areas also have laws prohibiting vaping in vehicles with minors.
  3. Rideshare Considerations:
    If you’re driving for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, avoid vaping while on the job. It’s best to create a neutral environment for passengers.

Legal and Responsible Vaping

Vaping in vehicles is generally legal in most places, but it’s still wise to know your local laws. Many regions have no restrictions on vaping in cars unless minors are present. To stay on the safe side, follow these guidelines:

  • Follow Distracted Driving Laws: Avoid letting vaping or adjusting your device distract you from driving safely.
  • Respect Restrictions: Be aware of any local regulations regarding vaping with children or non-smokers in the vehicle.

Conclusion

Vaping in vehicles is a safe and convenient option when done responsibly. By following basic precautions, such as maintaining visibility, using proper ventilation, and respecting others in the car, you can enjoy vaping without compromising safety or comfort.

Ultimately, vaping offers a cleaner, safer alternative to smoking and is well-suited to confined spaces like cars. Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, a little mindfulness goes a long way in making vaping in vehicles a positive experience for everyone.

By, Scott Kraft (Technology Reporter), & April Fischer (Construction, Hunting & Automotive Reporter)

Scott Kraft is the Technology Producer for Utah Channel 3. He is a degreed Electrical Engineer that applies engineering testing/procedures to products that are of technical interest to those participating in sporting activities in Southern Utah.

April Fisher is a field reporter with expertise in the automotive industry. April also coverers technology used in construction and hunting (safety) when she is not out and about racing her 1997 RED Corvette and covering the automotive industry.