E-Cig Explosions: How Do They Happen and How Can They Be Prevented?

Reports of battery-powered electronic cigarettes exploding have users questioning the safety of these devices. E-cigs appeared on the market in 2007 and have been growing in popularity ever since, with more brands of e-cigarettes and flavors being released all the time.

At the current time, at least several dozen reported incidents have occurred regarding e-cigarette explosions, and it is estimated that a number of e-cig explosions have gone unreported.

According to a report issued by FEMA in 2014 that detailed information about e-cigarette explosions, it was determined that approximately 80% of e-cig explosions occurred while the device was charging.

The other 20% occurred when the device was in the user’s possession or while the individual was actively using the product. In a few cases, the circumstances surrounding the explosion were unknown.

What Happens During E-Cig Explosions?

In its analysis of media reports of e-cig explosions, FEMA says: “The event occurs suddenly and is accompanied by a loud noise, a flash of light, smoke, flames, and often vigorous ejection of the battery and other parts.

“Many of the media reports state that the battery or other components of the device were ejected under pressure and ‘flew across the room,’ often igniting combustible items where they landed.”

The fires that were spread by the e-cigarette explosions included items such as couches, seats in an automobile, carpet, drapes and bedding. The fires were typically limited to a small area, but one report FEMA referred to indicated that an entire bedroom was lost as a result of the fire.

Personal injury has also occurred, with burns on the mouth, hands and areas near a user’s pocket.

E-cigarettes are charged by the use of the USB charger that is typically included with the sale of the e-cigarette. However, the USB port can allow other chargers to be used to connect the e-cigarette. The use of these power adapters that were not supplied by the manufacturer seem to be the reason for the majority of e-cigarette explosions.

USB ports all offer different voltage and current specifications. The FEMA report notes that “plugging an e-cigarette into a USB port or power adapter not supplied by the manufacturer may subject the battery to higher current than is safe, leading to thermal runaway that result in an explosion and/or fire.”

The design of the battery’s case can also affect the amount of damage caused by an e-cigarette explosion. Cylindrical e-cigarette batteries are weak at their ends. When the seal at the battery’s end ruptures, an explosion can propel the battery’s contents forcefully out of the end of the case.

Reducing the Risk of E-Cigarette Explosions

A safer type of e-cigarette may be that in which the battery is charged separately from the device. The majority of e-cigarette explosions have occurred with devices that must be plugged in in their entirety in order to charge.

Consumers should always use the manufacturer-provided battery charging device when charging their e-cig device.

E-cig devices should be purchased from a reputable company. Consumers should also consider choosing domestically made products. Some reports question if batteries made in China may have been linked to e-cig explosions due to lower manufacturing standards.

E-cigs should not be plugged into the USB port of computers or other devices that have USB capabilities.

Charging e-cigs should not be left unattended during sleep or while users are away from the charging location, and care should be taken so that the battery is not overcharged.

Battery cases should be used to protect e-cig batteries. Batteries should not be carried in pockets or purses next to metal items like coins or keys.

Taking Legal Action over E-Cigarette Explosions

If you have been a victim of e-cigarette explosions, you may be able to seek legal compensation from the manufacturer. An e-cig attorney can review your case for free and can guide you in understanding your legal options.

Join a Free Exploding E-Cigarette Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you or a loved one was injured and hospitalized by an exploding e-cigarette, you may qualify to join this e-cigarette class action lawsuit investigation.