E-Cigarettes May Be More Dangerous Than You Think

Electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, have increased in popularity over the last several years, particularly among the younger crowd. Consumers have switched from the traditional smoking form to the smaller, battery-operated devices with many of them under the assumption that these e-cigarettes are safer and healthier than regular cigarettes.

However, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tell a much different story. Another report published by several federal agencies report that the number of explosions and burns caused by these electronic cigarettes is significantly underestimated.

E-cigarette Dangers

Though plenty of people perceive e-cigarettes as a safer and healthier option, or even a way to help them quit smoking, the CDC is warning people about the potential danger of this smoking alternative.

E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid that typically contains nicotine so that it produces an aerosol that can be inhaled. These liquids also contain flavorings and other chemicals according to the CDC. Not only do these “safer” alternatives cause a variety of health issues, there are other dangers that people need to be aware of.

The lithium ion batteries that power e-cigarettes may be defective and several have been known to catch fire or even explode. When this happens, it can result in third-degree burns; loss of teeth, eyes, or tongue; lacerations; and even death.

Burns by Degrees

A burn is defined as a personal injury that is caused when heat, radiation, chemicals, or electricity are applied to a specific material or organic tissue. While some burns can be treated with a bit of care and a dressing, others can be much harder to treat or even be fatal.

Burns are measured in degrees, and these degrees determine how severe the burn is and what type of medical treatment is needed. The degrees of burns include the following:

• First-Degree Burns – In most cases, a first-degree burn is the least severe and typically only affects the most outer layer of the skin. In some cases, this can be deemed serious if the burn is on the hands, face, feet, buttocks, or groin. These burns are often the result of hot liquids.

• Second–Degree Burns – These burns are also known as partial thickness burns because the burn not only affects the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, but also the dermis that lies just underneath the outer layer. These burns are often caused by sudden explosions or flash-type injuries.

• Third–Degree Burns – These burns affect the entire area of the skin and frequently include the underlying muscle as well. These burns often destroy sweat glands and hair follicles. Victims often experience difficulty breathing due to the inhalation of toxic fumes.

• Fourth–Degree Burns – These are the most life-threatening of all the burns and often result in the burn reaching the bone. All burned skin is typically permanently lost and burned limbs are often amputated. These types of burns are associated with high voltage electrical shocks and house fires.

Contact an Experienced Burn Injury Attorney

If you have sustained burns in an accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. The Boca Raton attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez will review your situation and determine if you have a case. If so, we will advise you of your legal rights and fight to ensure those rights are protected. Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Resource:

consumeraffairs.com/news/e-cigarette-burns-and-explosions-more-common-than-previously-thought-100318.html