The Northeastern United States is facing a historic winter storm, blanketing cities from Long Island to Boston in heavy snow. Travel bans and blizzard warnings have left roads impassable, flights canceled, and vehicles buried, creating an urgent need for safety measures. Beyond the obvious risks of cold and power outages, experts warn of a less obvious hazard: vaping devices left inside frozen cars.

Lithium-ion batteries in e-cigarettes are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures. When exposed to sub-zero conditions, their chemical structure can be compromised. Attempting to use or charge a frozen device can trigger thermal runaway, causing overheating, venting, or even fires. The risk is particularly high with unregulated or counterfeit products that lack built-in safety protections.

E-liquids in vaping devices also pose dangers in cold weather. Freezing can thicken and expand the liquid, damaging seals and causing leaks. These leaks can stain car interiors or damage sensitive electronics, potentially resulting in costly repairs. With millions of Americans using e-cigarettes, leaving these devices in vehicles during a blizzard could turn them into fire hazards.

Experts recommend removing devices from cars during winter or insulating them if they must stay inside. If a device is left in the cold, it should be allowed to gradually reach room temperature before use, and checked for leaks or swelling. Awareness of this hidden risk ensures both personal safety and vehicle protection, highlighting that modern winter preparedness must now include attention to the technology we carry. READ MORE BELOW