Have you seen more e-cigarette (e-cig) users at the DTUA? Want to know what the real deal is with these devices? Let’s talk.

In April 2017, the Navy prohibited using, storing, possessing and charging e-cigarettes on ships, subs, aircraft, boats, craft and heavy equipment because of safety concerns such as explosions and injuries. For more information, please see ALFLTFORCOM/ ALPACFLT 141300Z APR 17.

E-cigs, vapes, e-hookahs and JUULs are types of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and can impact readiness [PDF 215KB]. What you mostly see today are ENDS that look like USB flash drives and pens, but they can also look like regular cigarettes, cigars or pipes, or even larger tanks.

Ok so what are the negative effects of vaping and e-cigarettes?

1. E-cigarettes are just as addictive as traditional cigarettes because of nicotine. E-cigs are considered tobacco products by the FDA because most of them contain nicotine, which comes from tobacco. If you don’t smoke traditional cigarettes because you don’t want to be addicted to nicotine, steer clear of vapes, JUULs, and e-cigs too.
2. Nicotine can harm brain development. Everyone’s brain is still developing until age 25. If you are 25 or younger and use nicotine, it may harm the parts of your brain that control attention and learning or put you at risk for lower impulse control. Avoid e-cigarettes because they can harm your brain development now and have a lasting impact.
3. Vapes can explode and cause life-threatening injuries. Injuries like a fractured jaw or severe burns can impact Service member readiness or even end a career. If you choose to use e-cigs, follow these tips to prevent your device from exploding. [PDF 1.4MB]
4. E-cigs may be a gateway to traditional smoking. Studies have found that teens and young adults who vape are more likely to try cigarettes. Instead of opening the door to other harmful habits, say no to trying your friend’s JUUL.
5. They are not a proven method for quitting smoking. There is not enough evidence to show that e-cigs and vapes [PDF 1.3MB] help traditional cigarette users quit. Find ways to quit tobacco that work.

Many cities and locations are changing their laws to make it illegal to use e-cigs indoors. As a reminder, the DOD already has this policy in place and all tobacco products, including vapes, can only be used in DTUAs.

Vaping can poorly impact your health, lifestyle and career, but you can avoid these risks. For resources and support on quitting e-cigarettes, use a texting program.