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Tag: vape fire

  • Vapes a ‘Relentless’ Source of Trash Fires

    Vapes a ‘Relentless’ Source of Trash Fires

    Ryan Fogelman, a partner at fire suppression firm Fire Rover, said that discarded vape devices are driving a surge in waste and recycling facility fires, as lithium-ion batteries inside the products can ignite when damaged or improperly handled. Fogelman, who tracks fire incidents across the U.S. and Canada, recorded 448 waste and recycling facility fires in 2025—the highest level since he began compiling data in 2016—describing vapes as a “relentless” and growing hazard. He argues that waste operators are increasingly forced to manage safety risks created by improperly disposed vaping products, which are difficult to detect during processing.

    In response, several U.S. states are exploring legislative and operational measures to address vape-related waste risks. California lawmakers passed legislation to ban disposable vape pens, partly aimed at reducing litter and fire hazards, while New Jersey has reintroduced an extended producer responsibility proposal that would place disposal and recycling obligations on manufacturers. Meanwhile, pilot take-back and safe disposal initiatives led by the Product Stewardship Institute are underway in states including New York and Missouri, alongside broader industry-backed education and battery recycling programs designed to reduce fire risks and improve end-of-life management of vaping products.

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    Following the publication of this story, Ryan Fogelman requested we link a recent article he wrote, titled, “December Fire Report: A Plea to the Tobacco Industry.”

  • Heat Hazard: This Common Item Could Destroy Your Car

    Heat Hazard: This Common Item Could Destroy Your Car

    Expert warns drivers to avoid common mistake as the weather gets warmer

    As warmer temperatures hit the UK, experts are urging drivers not to leave their vapes in the car as the significant change in temperature can lead to the vape battery exploding, causing a fire and resulting in £1,000s worth of damage and risk to health. 

    Here, Markus Lindblad, Director from Haypp, reveals the dangers of leaving vapes in a car as the weather starts to get warmer and what to do if your vape overheats.

    • Battery explosion: All vapes require a battery to function, and these batteries are very sensitive to any extreme change in temperatures, especially heat. If you leave your vape in the car, and it’s exposed to the sun for a long period of time, then the vape battery is at risk of swelling, leaking and in some cases, can potentially cause the battery to explode. 
    • Leaking vape juice: The extreme temperature conditions in a car can cause the e-liquid inside vapes to thin, or the vape tank can expand which causes leaks. A leaking vape will not only cause a sticky mess within the car interior and be difficult to clean, but in some cases it can also cause irritation to the skin too. If the vape has leaked in the car then it’s advised not to use it and dispose of it correctly. 
    • Damaged vape: Leaving a vape exposed to heat can also damage parts of the vapes, impacting the performance of the device, reducing the battery lifespan, and ruining the coils, screen or tank. 
    • Insurance risks: If a vape causes a car fire, owners may not be able to claim on their insurance. Some policies might have clauses that exclude coverage for fires caused by vaping devices, arguing that you increased the vehicle’s fire risk, resulting in the car owner paying £1,000s worth of damage.

    What to do if you leave your vape in the car?

    If you leave your vape in a hot car for a long period of time, then it’s important to cool the vape down safely by placing it in a cool dark place. Alternatively, wipe it down with a cold damp cloth and let it air dry.  If your vape has overheated, do not, under any circumstances, place the vape in water to cool it down, as this could increase the risk of the battery exploding.  

    Where is the best place to leave a vape in a car?

    It’s always best to take a vape out of the car. If this is not possible, then it’s advised to either park in a shady spot, or place it in the glove box out of direct sunlight. Vapes should be kept at room temperature, so any fluctuations or sudden temperature changes can damage the battery, causing a fire hazard.