With disposable vapes being banned in the UK last month, festival-goers who vape have had to make a few changes. Festival enthusiasts are warned against attempting to smuggle in disposable vapes, as strict entry checks will occur with thorough bag searches conducted to confiscate any disposables.1

With this in mind, it is important to be aware of how to vape safely, as well as the proper procedure for recycling your e-cigarettes. The experts at HAYPP have shared their top tips on how to stay safe while vaping at festivals this year.

Avoid sharing:

You should avoid sharing vapes at all costs. Whilst you may know what’s in your own vape, you don’t know what someone else has put in theirs, or if they have bought it from a verified retailer. Pay close attention in particular when it comes to sharing reusable e-cigarettes, as they can be filled manually with any liquid. While the Met Police has identified THC and spice as the main contributors, there have been over 100 different drugs identified in cases of vape spiking.

Inspect your vape:

Whether it’s been with you the whole time, or you left it unattended, it is vital to look over your vape to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with. Make sure to check your pod to see if the top has been removed, leaks or if liquid has been added or discarded. With the UK’s ban on disposable vapes now in effect, festival-goers will lean towards refillable vapes, however these pose a greater risk of tampering and spiking if not closely monitored.

It’s also advisable to bring a testing kit with you in case you suspect your vape has been spiked. Shortness of breath, nausea, coughing, or fatigue are red flags, so please ensure to seek medical attention. Many festivals will have designated areas for first aid, ensure you are aware of these locations, and know that security is always around to assist you.

The vape experts at HAYPP comment on the importance of checking your vape:

“Festival-goers, especially younger individuals, may be more vulnerable to the risks of vape spiking. It’s crucial to be proactive about ensuring the safety of your vaping equipment – people need to know how to identify if a vape has been tampered with, and what to do if you believe you’ve been spiked.

This isn’t to say your fun should be overshadowed by the looming fear of spiking, it’s more about generating awareness for a growing issue and taking the steps to avoid it to cultivate a happier, and safer, vaping community.”

Hydration and Nicotine:

With the UK already experiencing highs of 33 degrees this summer, high temperatures combined with nicotine use can heighten the risk of dehydration, dizziness, and fatigue, especially during long and exhausting festival days. Nicotine is a stimulant which can contribute to dehydration if you’re not drinking enough water. If you’re vaping in the heat, balance it by regularly sipping water throughout the day. Make sure to take breaks in shaded areas, and make hydration a top priority to stay alert and safe while enjoying the festival experience.

Battery Safety:

It’s essential to follow proper battery safety practices when using vapes. Always use manufacturer-approved chargers to avoid the risk of overcharging or short-circuiting. If you’re carrying spare batteries, store them in a dedicated battery case to prevent contact with metal objects, which can cause dangerous malfunctions. Make sure to avoid exposing your vape or batteries to excessive heat such as leaving them in direct sunlight whilst at the festival, as this can increase the risk of battery failure, fire, or even explosion.

Vape hygiene:

Vapes can harbour bacteria and fungi, potentially posing health risks to users, and a typical uncleaned vape can harbour millions of bacteria per square centimeter after just one week. Regularly clean the mouthpiece with an alcohol wipe or warm soapy water to remove bacteria, residue, and debris. Remember to avoid placing your vape on the ground or shared surfaces where it could pick up germs, or even touching the mouthpiece with unwashed hands. When not in use, store your device in a clean, secure case or pocket.

How to properly dispose of your vape:

If you’re finished with your vape while at a festival, don’t just throw it on the ground or into a regular bin. Festivals usually have designated waste and recycling points, so look out for bins marked for electricals or batteries. If your vape has a removable battery, try to separate it and recycle both parts correctly. If not, you can usually drop the whole vape into the electrical bin. Disposing of it properly helps keep the festival grounds clean and reduces harm to the environment.