For many people, vaping may seem like a godsend. Electronic vapor smoking doesn’t produce obnoxious and obtrusive clouds of second-hand smoke, and it is technically safer than traditional smoking since e-cigs don’t contain as many of the harmful chemicals found in regular cigarettes. Some people are even under the impression that they can vape anytime and anywhere they want, but that isn’t the case.
E-cigarettes may be relatively safe and unobtrusive, but there are still some rules of vaping etiquette that should be followed. Here are just a few tips to keep in mind if you want to enjoy your e-cig in public:
Ask for Permission
Even though the “smoke” that gets exhaled when vaping mostly consists of water vapor, not everyone likes the idea of having it around them. You wouldn’t light up a traditional cigarette in front of people without their permission, so you shouldn’t do the same thing with an e-cig. Always ask permission before vaping, even if you’re not actually generating any smoke.
Keep E-Cigs Away from Children
Not everyone can tell the difference between a lit cigarette and an e-cig at a glance. Even the vapor that is exhaled looks almost exactly like second-hand smoke. People tend to be protective of what is around their children, and they won’t be happy with you if they think you’re blowing clouds of second-hand smoke everywhere. You also don’t want to influence any bad habits in children who might see you smoking.
No “Cloud Chasing”
“Cloud chasing” refers to the habit of exhaling large, obnoxious and obtrusive clouds of vapor. This isn’t as bad as creating a haze of second-hand smoke, but it’s still annoying and crass, much like someone trying to look important with a large and smelly cigar. If you vape in public, try to exhale small clouds of vapor away from others. In other words, try to be discreet.
Pay Attention to No Smoking Laws
Many establishments that ban smoking also ban e-cigarettes – a fact that is often lost on people who see vaping as completely harmless. As a general rule, you shouldn’t vape when you see a no smoking sign. Even if you don’t see a sign specifically mentioning e-cigarettes, it’s best not to take any chances.
E-cigs may be safer than regular cigarettes, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t subject to similar rules of etiquette. Whether you’re lighting a traditional cigarette or vapor smoking, always be mindful of those around you.