- E-nicotine poisoning can happen when the liquid in e-cigarettes is swallowed. But kids can also get sick just from breathing in the vapor, splashing the liquid on their skin or getting it in their eyes.
- E-nicotine is sold in various sizes, from 10 ml (2 teaspoons) to 30 ml (6 teaspoons). Even as little as half a teaspoon of liquid nicotine can be lethal to a young child, and a smaller amount can make them sick enough for a trip to the ER.
Poisoning
Keeping Vapes and Refills Away From Kids
Root beer, bubblegum, and other sweetly flavored e-cigarettes are growing in popularity. Though they’re tobacco-free, you should still avoid using them around kids. If they see you putting it in your mouth and it smells delicious, they may want to taste it too. Liquid nicotine is highly concentrated—swallowing even a small amount is poisonous. Know the risks, and take the right steps to help protect your kids.
STEPS TO SAFETY
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What Is E-Nicotine Poisoning
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Keep E-Cigarettes Up and Away
- Make sure all e-cigarettes, e-nicotine refills and cartridges are locked up or stored out of your child’s sight and reach.
- Whenever possible, choose products with child-resistant packaging.
- Follow the instructions on the label to properly dispose of e-cigarettes and their parts. Even a small amount of e-nicotine can be dangerous, so keep discarded refills away from kids.
- Try not to use e-cigarettes when kids are around. But if you do, never take your eyes off of them. Vapes are easy to pull apart, and their small parts can also make them a choking hazard.
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If You Think There's a Problem
- If your child has been in contact with e-nicotine, his or her symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Fast heartbeat
- Feeling jittery and unsteady
- Difficulty breathing
- Increased saliva
- If you suspect your child has swallowed or may have come in contact with e-nicotine, don’t force them to vomit. Immediately call the Poison Help number at 1-800-222-1222.
- If your child is unconscious, not breathing or having seizures, call 911 immediately.
- If your child has been in contact with e-nicotine, his or her symptoms may include:
Did You Know?
Poison Control centers in the U.S. receive more than 4 calls a day about children younger than 6 that have been exposed to liquid nicotine.
- Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital, April 2018
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