Are you at risk from an e-cigarette related fire?
There has been much debate and discussion about e-cigarettes in recent months including their long-term health effects, their packaging and advertising and whether enhanced regulation is required and whether they are safe for use in the workplace. In addition to these discussions, some recent high profile e-cigarette fires have resulted in the need for sensible precautions to be taken when using this relatively new technology.
The Local Government Association (LGA), has warned that the number of incidents is likely to rise as more smokers continue to switch to e-cigarettes.
The risk of using incompatible chargers Charging e-cigarettes using incompatible charges has been identified as a frequent cause of fires so here are some tips on charging your e-cigarettes:
- Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully
- Take notice of any warnings supplied with the product
- Ensure that e-cigarettes are not left charging for long periods of time
- Do not leave e-cigarettes plugged in overnight or when you are out of the house
- Look for the ‘CE’ mark that indicates chargers comply with European safety standards
- Do not overload plug sockets
- Check that your electrical products have not been recalled
- Avoid buying counterfeit or substandard goods
- Switch off appliances at the socket when not in use
Source: Gov.co.uk
Fire chiefs say many blazes occur when incompatible chargers are used or when charging the units for prolonged periods of time. Often, incompatible chargers do not regulate and control power in the correct way. This can result in too much current entering the battery, causing it to overheat, and sometimes explode.
For further information about NC Stirling and how we can help protect your home and business, call us during office hours 0141 332 9898.
