How to Help Stop Young People Vaping?

How can you help stop young people vaping?

With more news outlets and organisations describing the problem of teenage vaping in the UK as an 'epidemic' every day, it's time we, as responsible vapers, started to take an interest.

As it is, the environmental impact of the litter that disposable vapes cause, coupled with the war on colourful packaging and fun flavours, is driving local councils to scrutinise every vape product. This is not a bad thing. We want vape manufacturers that are safe and responsible. The problem with teenagers vaping is the potential for damage to their immature lungs and their lack of understanding of vaping devices.

The two ways to spot likely underage vape sellers

There are two main methods of spotting vape sellers who supply disposable vaping devices to children and young people.

#1 - Observe the shop from a distance

The first way to spot a dodgy disposable vape seller is to keep an eye on the shop. Are there a lot of children hanging around? Are some of them asking older people to buy them vapes? Do the kids hang around until the shop is empty and then come out with a vape product in hand?

#2 - Examine the vape products on sale

We have an earlier guide on another page that can tell you what to look for when spotting fake disposables. However, in addition to looking closely at the name to spot mistakes, recognising familiar branding and logos will help, and you should look at the puff number. Puffs are limited to 600 in the UK. Any more than that is an illegal import. Also look at the nicotine level. You want no more than 20mg. You can browse disposable vape products at VapeDirect.com to familiarise yourself with popular vape types.

What parents can do

As a parent, you’re a powerful influence — even if your teenager seems to disagree with everything you say. Here are some of the most effective ways you can steer your kids away from tobacco:

• Maintain a dialogue. Start early. Begin talking with your kids about smoking and vaping in kindergarten. Be honest and open to seeing things from your child’s point of view. And don’t stop. Keep the conversation going as kids get older.
  
• Think more than cigarettes. Explain that smokeless tobacco, hookah and e-cigarettes all have dangers, including nicotine addiction.
  
• Prepare your kids for peer pressure. Discuss what they might say if a friend offers a cigarette or e-cigarette.
  
• Set a good example. If you smoke or vape, the best thing you can do is quit. At least don’t smoke around your children.
  
• Establish a smoke-free home. Don’t allow family members or friends to smoke in your home or car. Make sure the places where your child spends a lot of time are tobacco-free.

If your child has started smoking or vaping, try to learn why. This may help you talk with him or her more effectively. Instead of punishment, offer understanding and help to resist the dangerous lure of tobacco use and addiction.