Beware: e-cigarette battery explosion sends man to hospital

Ogden, Utah – A man in Ogden, Utah, is urging caution regarding e-cigarette batteries after experiencing an alarming incident. Christopher Kendall shared that an e-cigarette spare battery exploded in his pocket, causing significant harm. The event took place while Kendall was on duty as a security guard at Skinny Dogz, where he was interacting with customers in the arcade section.

The sudden explosion caught Kendall by surprise, leading to second and third-degree burns on his leg. He recounted the terrifying moment when he heard a pop, felt his pants catch fire, and saw the battery shooting across the room like a flare. Thankfully, surveillance footage captured the incident, showing the battery sparking and striking a counter as a customer narrowly avoided injury.

Although incidents of e-cigarette battery explosions are not widespread, Kendall revealed that he had heard of similar mishaps occurring before. These occurrences are concerning enough for the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to dedicate a webpage to warn individuals about the potential dangers associated with e-cigarette batteries. The products themselves come with warning labels, emphasizing the importance of handling them with care.

Reflecting on the incident, Kendall expressed disbelief at what had transpired and emphasized the necessity of proper battery storage for vapers. He advised individuals to ensure that spare batteries are stored in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating and to keep a close eye on their condition. Kendall stressed the importance of being cautious, highlighting that his injuries could have been far more severe.

In conclusion, Kendall’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with e-cigarette batteries and the need for heightened awareness among users. By sharing his story, he hopes to educate others about the potential hazards of these devices and encourage responsible usage to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.