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Vaping is getting increasingly popular these days, especially among the younger generation who'd rather opt for e-cigarettes than the cancer-inducing conventional cigarettes
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Seeing as the authorities and researchers around the world are still studying the ins and outs of this new alternative to smoking, there is yet to be concrete regulations – if any – to be imposed on vapers.
However, that does not mean that it's okay to vape freely without consideration of others. Hence, the need for these unspoken rules in vaping etiquette:
1. Here's the basic rule: Don't vape where you can't smoke
Image via e-cigarette Reviewed
"Why not?", you ask. The vapour doesn't smell. Even if it does, it smells nice. Plus, there's no secondhand smoke, 'cos the vapour dissipates and doesn't linger!
Well, **non-smokers may be appreciative about the lack of toxic fumes in vaping, but that doesn't mean they are as receptive towards being engulfed in clouds of vapour.** Plus, parents might get rightfully p\*ssed if you vape in front of their kids.
With that said, **don't vape in shopping malls, movie theatres, and restaurants,** just to name a few. **If you really can't help it, step outside where it won't disturb or distract the other patrons.**
2. Don't vape in enclosed spaces, such as elevators, toilet cubicles, in the car, on public transportation like buses and LRTs, as well as in rooms with the doors closed
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3. Be respectful of non-smokers/vapers and the people around you. If you're thinking of vaping indoors e.g. in bar, restaurant, or private office, always ask for permission from your friends or the owner of an establishment if you can vape. #commoncourtesy
People who are unfamiliar with vaping might get a little annoyed if you just whip out your e-cig and start puffing away, as harmless as it may be.
**Asking for permission sets the stage for mutual respect**, it might even spark interest and spur conversation between you and the person you're talking to.
In the event that you started smoking without asking for permission and are asked to stop, try to explain what you're doing in a civil way. If that doesn't work, simply cease without kicking up a fuss. Inciting an argument may add to more prejudice and result in tighter regulations in the future.
**The "it's my business if I want to smoke/vape" is completely inaccurate and selfish. It is another party's business if it brings on a negative effect.**
Image via Julia Xanthos / New York Daily News
4. Don't blow the vapour into anyone's face. That's just plain rude.
Even vapers can get annoyed when someone does this. It's not that difficult to blow the vapour towards any direction other than into someone's face; you have 360-degrees to work with.
Image via FastTech
5. Unless you're making a dramatic entrance as a ghost in a Halloween play, don't cloud-chase in public
So, you like to make big, big clouds of vapour to contain your dreams.
By all means, **do so in the comfort of your own home or in a vape-friendly environment such as a vape store or a closed-door vape convention.**
Just don't be a walking fog machine in public. No one likes to be shrouded in fog all the time, we're not on the set of 'Silent Hill'.
Image via YouTube
6. Practice stealth vaping for moments where you are allowed to vape in public places. It's like ninja vaping!
Stealth vaping is when you deliberately create small amounts of vapour in a bid to be discreet while vaping in a public setting.
We suppose you could try stealth vaping in places where vaping is still a grey area, but don't be too sketchy about it or you'll draw suspicion! ;p
Image via Volcano E-Cigs
7. Try not to use highly-flavoured mixtures or scents that are too overpowering
It's kinda like when someone who wears too much perfume or aftershave walks past you and you're trying not to gag from the cloying smell.
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8. Don't leave your old e-cig cartridges and vaping gear lying around everywhere. Throw them away after you are done.
Image via Hashish House
9. Ask for permission before using another person's e-cigarette. You might think this doesn't happen… but it totally does.
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10. Don't be a vape snob. It's not cool to look down on others in the community just because the size, specs, design, or price of their device is not on the same level as yours.
An individual's device depends on their personal experiences, preference, and technical ability, so it's really nobody's business.
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11. To those who quit smoking to join the vape community: Don't be condescending and rude to smokers
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12. Arm yourself with knowledge so that you are able to answer general questions the curious public may have for you
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13. With that said, please don't act like a vape evangelist and force your 'beliefs' on everyone else. Your non-vaper friends will definitely NOT appreciate hearing the benefits of vaping on repeat.
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