What are the dangers of being around someone who is smoking/vaping?
Secondhand smoke/vapor occurs when you breathe in someone else’s smoke/vapor. This often occurs in public places, cars, or homes. Even if you don’t smoke or vape, being near someone who is smoking or vaping can be harmful to your health because secondhand smoke has many of the same chemicals found in cigarettes/vapes. These chemicals can lead to cancers, heart disease, breathing problems, pregnancy complications, and more. Learn more about Secondhand Smoke/Vapor here.
What is thirdhand smoke/vapor?
Thirdhand smoke/vapor refers to the chemicals that linger in a home, car, or other area where someone was previously smoking or vaping. Smoke/vapor settles on surfaces such as clothes, furniture, counters, carpet, and toys and leaves behind dangerous chemicals. Thirdhand smoke/vapor builds up over time, and it can be difficult to get rid of these harmful chemicals in your home or vehicle. Thirdhand smoke/vapor is especially harmful to little children, as they put everything in their mouths, and these chemicals can be harmful to their developing lungs and brains. Learn more about Thirdhand Smoke here.
Is vaping healthier than smoking?
Vaping has been around for a shorter amount of time than cigarettes, so researchers are still collecting data on the long-term dangers of vaping. We do know that vape products contain many of the same chemicals found in traditional cigarettes, can have high levels of nicotine, and can cause damage to the heart and lungs. The E-liquids used in vapes are often masked with sweet or fruity flavors, but vaping is far from safe! Learn more about Vaping & E-Cigarettes here.
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