This month’s fire column focuses on the dangers of e-cigarettes or vapes.

An electronic cigarette, also known as an e-cigarette, is an electronic inhaler that vaporises a liquid solution into an aerosol mist, simulating the act of tobacco smoking.

All e-cigarettes use a rechargeable battery to power the vaporiser and these batteries require recharging on a regular basis.

A number of incidents have been reported nationally whereby the battery has either overheated or exploded during the charging process.

E-cigarettes contain lithium ion batteries. This type of battery is known to have caused fires in the past due to ’thermal runaway’, which can be caused by overcharging, physical damage or a defect within the battery during manufacture.

Members of the public are advised to always follow manufacturer’s instructions and guidance when charging e-cigarette battery packs.

Some e-cigarettes may not have a plug.

They charge by connecting the battery into a USB hub and then into a laptop. It is therefore essential that the manufacturer’s instructions, in relation to charging times, are followed.

Power adaptors used for charging e-cigarettes should comply with the Electrical (Safety) Equipment Regulations 1994 and the Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2006.

They must be marked with the following: CE Mark; the name or trademark of the manufacturer or responsible supplier; unique identifier e.g. model, type, batch/serial number; the rated voltage(s), power/current and frequency.

Recently there has been an increase in the number of unbranded e-cigarette chargers available to consumers, many of which are non-compliant with regulations.

Specific risks found with these chargers include: wiring not mechanically retained; lack of instructions; overheating of the charger; possibility of fire; non-conformity of the plug part; Electric shock via the secondary parts.

It is recommended that only the battery and charger provided with the e-cigarette are used when charging.

Remember these fire safety tips to ensure you are safe when using your e-cigarette:

â?¢ Never leave e-cigarettes on charge unattended for long periods

â?¢ Do not mix components of different e-cigarettes

â?¢ Only use the charger supplied

â?¢ Ensure you purchase your e-cigarette from a reputable source

â?¢ Check the e-cigarette carries CE certification

â?¢ Test your smoke alarm regularly

â?¢ Contact trading standards over any e-cigarette safety concerns

Remember, working smoke alarms save lives, to book an appointment for a free home safety visit, call 647300, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.