Motorists across the UK are being warned against leaving vapes in their vehicles as the country experiences its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to reach 30C or above. Experts caution that extreme heat inside a parked car can cause vape batteries to swell, leak, or explode, potentially sparking fires and causing thousands of pounds in damage.
Why Vapes Are Dangerous in Hot Cars
Markus Lindblad, Head of Legal and External Affairs at Haypp, explained that vape batteries are highly sensitive to temperature changes. “All vapes require a battery to function, and these batteries are very sensitive to any extreme change in temperature, especially heat,” he said. “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.”
On a hot day, the interior of a sealed car can reach temperatures 30C to 40C higher than outside, as windows trap sunlight like a greenhouse. This rapid heating can compromise the integrity of the vape within minutes.
Leaking E-Liquid and Device Damage
Extreme temperatures can also cause e-liquid to thin or the vape tank to expand, leading to leaks. A leaking vape leaves a sticky residue that is difficult to remove from car interiors and may cause skin irritation. “If the vape has leaked in the car then it’s advised not to use it and dispose of it correctly,” Lindblad advised.
Heat can also damage vape components, reducing battery lifespan and ruining coils, screens, or tanks. This impacts device performance and may render the vape unusable.
Insurance Implications
If a vape ignites a car fire, owners may struggle to claim on insurance. Lindblad noted that some policies exclude coverage for fires caused by vaping devices, arguing that the driver increased the vehicle’s fire risk. This could leave owners paying thousands of pounds for damage.
Safe Storage and Cooling
Lindblad recommends always taking vapes out of the car. If that is not possible, park in a shaded area or store the device in the glove compartment away from direct sunlight. Vapes should be kept at room temperature; abrupt changes can damage the battery and pose a fire risk.
If a vape has been left in a hot car, cool it down safely by placing it in a cool, dark place or wiping it with a cold damp cloth. “Do not, under any circumstances, place the vape in water to cool it down, as this could increase the risk of the battery exploding,” Lindblad warned.
Legal Considerations for Vaping While Driving
Vaping while driving is not explicitly illegal in the UK, but if vapour clouds obscure visibility or the driver is distracted, police may charge them with driving without due care and attention. Penalties range from a £100 fine and three points to a maximum of £2,500 and a potential driving ban.
