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Smoking vs vaping?

Vaping is the use of an electronic device to inhale vapour from a heated liquid. Ingredients are glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine, as well as flavourings and sweeteners. Short term effects can include coughing, headaches, dizziness and sore throats. Long term effects are not yet known.

Smoking is much more harmful. Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, tar and around 250 toxic chemicals that can cause disease and disability.

Statistics show smoking and vaping amongst teens is not as prevalent as many parents may think. Since 2020 there has been a rise in 11-17 year olds using vapes but it is important to know that this is mostly experimental.

Have a conversation with your child about smoking and vaping

The greatest tool we have to keep our kids from vaping is open communication. Talk with your kids about the dangers of smoking and emphasise that e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is addictive and may have lasting effects.

• Pick a good moment, such as when you’re walking past a vape shop or see someone vaping
• Ask what they think about vaping; do any of their friends vape?
• Listen to them and share your knowledge
• Let them know you care about them and discuss any pressures they may feel such as peer pressure, wanting to fit in, curiosity, stress

The law

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to buy any products containing nicotine or tobacco, or for adults to buy them on their behalf. If you know of any trader selling to under 18’s, they can be reported to trading standards through Citizens Advice.

Many vapes being sold do not comply with safety guidelines and are illegal. Only vapes bought from a mainstream retailer who is a regulated tobacco retailer should be purchased.

If you have any concerns about your child or just want to talk something through about smoking or vaping, ABL Wirral would be happy to help. They can support anyone in Wirral over the age of 12 with a nicotine dependency.