Introduction
You've bought an expensive vape kit and the right premium e-juice . Now it's time to go out and vape freely, whenever and wherever you want.
You'd think, it's not a cigarette, so it's okay, right? Well, that's not necessarily the case.
Regardless of the changes in the law, the vaping community has its own unwritten rules of how to behave when vaping in public. Whether you’re new to vaping or a seasoned cloud chaser, we should all know the basic rules of etiquette. After all, it’s not just basic courtesy, but how we behave now can have a huge impact on how we move forward.
Why is that important?
Vaping is still a relatively new concept, and obvious concepts like cloud chasers and sub ohm vapes have only become popular in recent years. Regulations for vaping are just beginning to emerge, and it is likely that vaping will be regulated as strictly as smoking. We as individuals can help push these laws in our favor by behaving responsibly and showing the community that vaping is not only different and healthier than smoking, but also acceptable to the public. But more than that, it is the right way to behave. The following tips may be considered basic etiquette, but they are valuable in establishing rules of conduct that make vaping a harmless hobby rather than an unpleasant habit.
Location
- At home: Your home, your rules. Unlike cigarettes, vaping doesn't stain furniture and interiors, and the smell doesn't linger, so if you want to spend an evening vaping in your home, go for it. But if you have guests over, air out the room before they arrive and make sure they don't mind you vaping in front of them. Remember, a lot of people don't know what vaping is or how it works, so make them comfortable.
- Driving: The UK has recently passed a law banning smoking in cars. This does not yet apply to vaping, but it is a warning. A car that is hazy with smoke will affect the driver's vision, making it a hazard to other road users. Another danger is fogging up the windshield if you use a high VG e-liquid. Generally, you should not vape while driving or if you are a passenger, but if you want to, use PG e-liquid and open the windows to let the smoke out.
- Outside: If you are in a mountainous area with only sheep and sky, then vape freely! But if you are in a crowded street or waiting for a taxi, be mindful of the people around you. Your blueberry coffee e-liquid may be amazing to you, but many people do not want to inhale the smoke you exhale. Be mindful and take a few steps back from the crowd so the smoke does not blow towards them.
- Personal: This is a tough one. If you're in a movie theater or a concert, don't vape. Vapor affects visibility, and if you're around other people, they may be offended by the smell. Stores, bars, and clubs vary and depend a lot on the laws of the country or state. If vaping isn't illegal, ask the staff. Even if it's allowed, be responsible. Blow smoke in a secluded area or on the floor. Restaurants are a more delicate issue. You have to make sure it's acceptable not only to the restaurant staff, but also to other customers. The easiest thing to do is just walk out.
- Public transport: Buses, trains and planes have all started to have rules with vaping. If it is not banned, then passengers will definitely not like the smell of vape or cigarette smoke, so avoid vaping on public transport.
Social situations
It’s not just about where we vape, we should also consider how we behave around others. Here are some guidelines.
- Children and pets: You wouldn’t smoke around children, so don’t vape. PG-containing e-liquids can have negative effects on dogs and cats and can lead to anemia. Avoid vaping around pets or switch to VG e-liquids. Most importantly, don’t leave your vape device unsupervised near children or pets. Mods can explode and e-liquids containing nicotine can be toxic.
Non-smokers: If in doubt, ask. Most non-smokers don’t mind people vaping around, but it’s always a good idea to check first. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and while studies have shown vaping to be safe, many people don’t know this.
- Smokers: Don't criticize them, most of us have been in their shoes. If they are interested, explain to them the benefits of vaping, but be careful not to sound too condescending.
- Vaper: Again, respect them and don't criticize their choices. Some people are happy with Cig-a-likes, and others like unique complex builds. We are a community and should respect other vapers' preferences. If you get to try another vaper's kit, use your own drip tips or disposable drip tips.
Hidden Vape
Some vapers use “stealth vapes,” hiding their devices and holding the vapor longer so it’s less noticeable when they exhale. This is problematic. If you’re just doing it to trick people, don’t. You’ll likely get caught and it will affect the community. However, if you’re doing it to keep yourself from standing out in the legal vapes, then it’s fine.
Conclude
It’s all about basic manners. Studies have shown that vape smoke is harmless, but some people don’t like having their vapor blown directly near them. If possible, let them know, but don’t be long-winded, as they don’t like being lectured. Cloudchasing in public is bad manners, so keep it to yourself.
Just ask people around if they mind.
And if they do mind, respect their wishes. These are sensitive times for vapers around the world, with many countries and states starting to tighten regulations. If we can create a positive image for vaping, that would help a lot.
This article was posted on vaping360 by Ian Jones and translated by The Vape Club
