It seems that etiquette around nicotine use is disappearing along with cigarettes. Some vapers think that preferring strawberry flavour to tobacco means they can vape wherever and however they like.
Unfortunately, it is more complicated than that. We have rounded up seven inconsiderate vaping habits that drive people mad — and that it is time to give up so we can all get along.
Let's get started!
Blowing vapour into people's faces
The basic rule of considerate vaping: if you want to be polite, exhale away from people or upwards. If you want a reputation for rudeness, blow it straight into the face of the person you are talking to.
Taking someone else's vape without asking
Has your friend bought a new vape flavour that you want to try? Ask permission. Do it every time you want to borrow someone else's vape.
There are plenty of reasons someone might say no. The vape might be disposable, for instance, leaving its owner to replace the pod or the whole device after your puff. They might also be uncomfortable about hygiene or simply not want to share. That is their right!
Vaping in public places
Even if your vape smells of incense, put it away in church. Better still, do not vape on public transport, in hospitals or in enclosed spaces where people cannot move at least a couple of metres away from you.
Yes, you may think everyone loves the smell of blackcurrant in the morning. But trust us: many would prefer to breathe something else. So before taking out your vape, consider whether it is appropriate and how comfortable others will feel.
...and around children
Even if your little brother already vapes behind the school, set him a good example. Children are impressionable and may become hooked on vaping because they want to blow vapour rings too.
Do not earn parents' curses or swell the ranks of underage smokers. After all, e-cigarettes are meant to help people move away from conventional cigarettes, not the other way around.
Trying to hide the vapour
If you step aside every few minutes and take a puff from your sleeve, everyone knows you are vaping. There is no point holding your breath to hide the vapour: it will come out anyway and give you away.
Just ask the people around you if they mind. If they give you the go-ahead, vape without the secrecy. Or give up the habit if living with it is inconvenient.
Vaping during events
Do not do it at a concert, a wedding reception or a wake — in short, anywhere people would not normally smoke. Wait until the event is over or step outside for a break.
Family gatherings around the table are a special case. The only reason to take out a vape is to ask indignantly: “Whose is this?!”
Preaching about vaping to smokers
We live in an age of tolerance. That means everyone can choose how to damage their own health — without unsolicited advice.
See someone holding a cigarette? Leave them be. There is no need to tell them about lung cancer and offer them your e-cigarette. Find something else to talk about.
