As vaping continues to gain in popularity, especially among young people, many question whether it’s a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. At face value, e-cigarettes seem less harmful due to the lack of smoke, but scientific data reveals otherwise.
A typical cigarette burns out after 10 to 12 puffs. A vape pen, on the other hand, allows up to 50 puffs per cartridge. Vape pens deliver the same highly addictive drug – nicotine – along with harmful toxins directly into the lungs. These substances can cause long-term damage to the respiratory system, cardiovascular health, and even brain development in young users.
The ability to vape indoors or in places where smoking is prohibited further increases usage, often without the immediate awareness of those around.
Vaping devices are often disguised as everyday items including usb drives, pens, smart watches, hoodie strings, and phone cases.
Vape liquid packages also often disguised as well with some resembling popular candies and even juice boxes! The colorful packaging and sweet flavors mask the danger, making it all too easy for kids to get hooked.
And, with the legalization of marijuana products in Ohio last year, it’s easy to see why the Mentor Police Department takes underage vaping seriously. Kids are naturally curious and vape devices offer a convenient and concealed means of experimentation which can lead some down the path of substance abuse.
Thanks to a grant from the Lake County General Health District, the Mentor Police Department, in partnership with the Lake County Safe Communities Coalition, brought ThinkFast Interactive Vaping to Mentor High School this past fall. This engaging, game show-style educational program was designed to teach teens about the dangers of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products and ensure that those important lessons go beyond the classroom.
While we’re not here to scare, we are here to protect. We urge everyone to educate themselves and their loved ones about the risks of vaping.