Saftey Warning about use of E-Cigarettes

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued the following fire prevention directorate on the use of e-cigarettes powered by lithium-ion batteries, due to increasing number of fires caused by this product. This is important advice for all homeowners and landlords to protect their homes against this identified increased risk of fires.

There has been an increase in the number of dwelling fires throughout the UK, where the cause of ignition has been attributed to the charging of e-cigarettes.

Incidents involving these products have already resulted in a fatal fire in Derbyshire. Other incidents have occurred in Edinburgh, Merseyside, Leicester, Dumfries and Wales.

The use of e-cigarettes has recently increased in popularity as a direct replacement for tobacco products. E-cigarettes are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery powers an atomiser that vaporises added oil. Lithium-ion batteries have been the cause of fires in the past, due to:

• Thermal run away (overheating), caused by overcharging of batteries
• Physical damage, causing the battery to self-heat
• Battery defect.

E-cigarettes are usually charged by a USB adaptor inserted into a computer port or by using a USB adaptor plug. Failure of the battery can lead to decomposed components being projected with explosive force up to a distance of 2m, igniting a fire some distance from the charger. Further research into these products is on-going and more information will be released when available.

Tenant Safety Advice:

• When charging the e-cigarette with the USB adapter, it should never be left unattended
• Do not leave on charge for prolonged periods
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions
• If charger or product shows any sign of physical damage then seek advice from the manufacturer
• Ensure that the working smoke alarms fitted within your property

Remember if you are renting your property through Home Lettings Scotland, all our properties are non smoking.