Millions of people have turned to an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette to either cut back or quit regular cigarettes. How safe are they, though? Many have been burned and injured when these devices malfunction. FEMA found that 20% of these devices exploded while either in the user’s hand or pocket.

Why Do E-Cigarettes Explode?

There are many reasons e-cigarettes can explode. Sometimes it is the lack of industry-wide manufacturing standards or testing programs. More often, the issue with the device is often the battery. E-cigarettes use lithium batteries, which pack a large amount of power in a small space. When they fail, the outcome is disastrous. Extreme temperatures (below 50 or above 115) can speed up this process.
Unfortunately, investigations into explosion cases are rare. FEMA last compiled data from 2009 to 2014. They reported that 25 incidents of explosion occurred during this time.  Even though this is a small number of people, the fires they investigated showed ignition of nearby contents. This means the explosions burned carpets, drapes, bedding, couches or vehicle seats.

Lack of E-Cigarette Regulation

The reason there aren’t more studies into e-cigarette safety is because there aren’t any government safety regulators. The FDA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission are both still waiting for approval to standardize these devices. Without regulators, manufacturers do not have to report safety defects. Low-cost, low-quality devices are flooding the market.  This causes, even more, devices to be susceptible to explosion.

Banned from Airplanes

In October of 2015, the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration issued an interim final rule (IFR). Their rule prohibited passengers and crewmembers from carrying battery-powered portable electronic smoking devices in checked baggage and prohibited passengers and crewmembers from charging the devices and/or batteries on board the aircraft. This rule came from the department noticing that e-cigarettes in checked bags can catch fire during transport.

After an Explosion

If you were burned by an exploding e-cigarette, you may have a claim against the manufacturers of the device and battery. You could possibly recoup damages. The dedicated attorneys at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm know how to go against big manufacturers and win. Let our decades of experience win for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.