If you’re an e-cigarette user, how do you know where it’s okay to vape? If you’re complying with local laws, are you free to use your vaporizer in any circumstance? Every truly innovative product will have a dramatic affect socially. Think about the way the cell phone had to have boundaries defined for its use in social situations. Vaping has to find its way too.
International Laws
While traveling, you’ll find the laws vary drastically from country to country, each regulating e-cigarettes in very different ways. For instance, most European countries allow the sale and use of these vaporizers, but Brazil, Singapore, and Uruguay have gone so far as to completely ban them. Canada’s laws technically prohibit the sale and use of e-cigarettes, but the law is not enforced, and they are sold and smoked widely throughout the country.
Domestic Regulations
Though legal in the United States, there has been some debate about whether e-cigarettes are a drug delivery system or a tobacco product. Currently, the government is leaving regulation of vaping to states, counties and cities, so you may find the laws very different just a mile from home.
Fortunately, there is a consistent trend throughout the nation. Almost all states have banned the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors, and you can pretty much bet that there is probably some type of restriction on indoor use wherever you are.
Presently, vaping is not allowed on airlines and in most bars and restaurants as the bulk of city and state legislation forbids the use of electronic cigarettes in enclosed workplaces. It’s unfortunate that if unfamiliar with a locale, the e-cigarette consumer may find themselves vaping in ordinary smoking areas.
Polite Usage
Though vaping is legal wherever the law allows, considerate usage should be observed. A good rule of thumb is simply to ask before using your vaporizer. Even before regular cigarettes were proven to be harmful, conscientious folks always asked, “Do you mind if I smoke?” If you find yourself in a bar where it’s allowed, be courteous and ask those next to you. If someone is eating nearby, it’s best to wait until they have finished.
Obviously, vaping in tight spaces like elevators isn’t cool, and it’s always wise to give children a wide berth. If there are no restrictions on vaping at work, be polite and don’t do it in open office areas.
Familiarity
Although there is little to indicate that vaping is emitting anything harmful, people still may not feel comfortable being around it. Just be gracious and remember it isn’t your job to inform them how innocuous it is. As the custom grows, the misconceptions about the practice will change.
Clouds
Blowing clouds is fun, but doing this in public spaces might give the wrong impression about e-cigarettes. No one wants to encourage more prejudice that might sway people to vote for more stringent regulations. In public places, hold the vapor in longer and exhale downward to decrease the chance of big clouds.
Still In Flux
E-cigarettes are a relatively new idea, and regulations and attitudes to the practice are still evolving. It is necessary to keep an eye on legislation that may affect where you can vape. If you feel strongly about current or proposed laws, vote and canvas for a kinder stance towards e-cigarette usage. That said, people are going to be more favorably disposed to the practice if it feels like a non-threatening activity, so do your best to show vaping in its best light.
Bio –
This guest post contribution is courtesy of MightySkins, a Florida based company making custom vinyl skins for electronics such as vape wraps, kanger wraps and subox skins.
Tammie~