A man suffered third-degree burns when a vape exploded ‘like a firework’ in his pocket, causing serious injuries. Robert Kane recounted how his e-cigarette battery suddenly emitted a noise resembling a firework before sending excruciating pain into his leg. The 37-year-old likened the agony to having his leg placed in an oven due to the battery acid scorching through his thigh and lower leg.
Describing the traumatic incident, Mr. Kane highlighted the immediate and intense pain he experienced, likening it to being placed in an oven. He mentioned that he had opted for e-cigarettes as a healthier alternative to regular cigarettes but was scarred for life due to the explosion. Shocking photographs reveal the extent of his injuries from the vape explosion.
Mr. Kane, who transitioned to vaping in April 2019 following health advice, emphasized the lack of safety guidance provided at the point of sale regarding the storage of e-cigarettes and their batteries. Following a legal dispute with the vendor where he purchased the e-cigarette gear, Mr. Kane received compensation exceeding £20,000.
During his recovery in the burns unit, Mr. Kane underwent treatment for his injuries, which medical professionals described as severe, with the battery acid penetrating three layers of skin. After enduring a gruelling six-month recovery and an 18-month ban on sun exposure and foreign travel due to the risks of UV rays, he issued a stark warning to vapers using e-cigarettes powered by external batteries about the potential dangers.
Catherine Citron, a personal injury expert, emphasized the importance of appropriate safety advice for premises selling e-cigarettes or vapes following Mr. Kane’s harrowing experience. With a message to vapers to avoid keeping batteries in pockets and to use carry cases, Mr. Kane highlighted the risks associated with vape explosions and the life-altering consequences they can have.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of vaping and the importance of understanding the risks involved in using e-cigarettes. As Mr. Kane continues to recover from his injuries, his story stands as a reminder of the need for proper safety protocols and awareness when using vaping devices with external batteries.