Vaping is the act of inhaling an aerosol (not water vapor) created by an electronic cigarette or vape. Vapes come in many shapes and sizes and can be hard to identify. Many look like a writing pen, highlighter, USB, or other everyday items. No matter what they look like, they have the same basic components:

• Battery
• Heating element
• Place to hold e-liquid (such as a cartridge or pod)

The e-liquid, which usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, is quickly heated and converted to an aerosol that can be inhaled into the lungs.

Vapes are not only dangerous to your health but also the environment. With the increase in disposable vapes, more and more are ending up in landfills. Vapes are not biodegradable.

Vapes contain nicotine and lithium batteries, making them hazardous waste. The batteries can catch fire, especially when damaged, so disposing of vapes can be dangerous. When placed in household trash and recycling bins, batteries often get damaged by trash compactors and can cause fires.

Must be 21 years old to Vape

In Texas, an individual must be at least age 21 to legally buy or own tobacco products, including vape devices. Texas law also requires public schools to send students who are caught with vapes to Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs for a period of time.