Electronic Cigarette Fires and 

Explosions in the United States

2009 - 2016

July 2017

Mission Statement

We provide national leadership to foster a solid foundation for 

our fi re and emergency services stakeholders in prevention, 

preparedness and response.

Electronic Cigarette 

Fires and Explosions 

in the United States 

2009 - 2016

Lawrence A. McKenna Jr.

Research Group

National Fire Data Center

U.S. Fire Administration

Table of contents i

Table of contents

Key points ............................................................................................................................. 1

Updated report.................................................................................................................... 1

What is an e-cigarette......................................................................................................... 1

Development............................................................................................................................. 2

What do they look like? How much do they cost?................................................................ 2

How do they work?................................................................................................................... 3

Alternate uses ........................................................................................................................... 3

Health and safety ..................................................................................................................... 4

Methodology........................................................................................................................ 4

Why did we look at e-cigarettes?............................................................................................ 4

Data sources ............................................................................................................................. 4

Findings................................................................................................................................. 5

Overview.................................................................................................................................... 5

Injuries ....................................................................................................................................... 6

Did the fires spread? ................................................................................................................ 7

How the fires were suppressed.............................................................................................. 8

Trends......................................................................................................................................... 8

A new and unique hazard to consumers ......................................................................... 11

Spare batteries ......................................................................................................................... 11

Do it yourself............................................................................................................................. 12

Safety standards....................................................................................................................... 12

Conclusions .......................................................................................................................... 13

References............................................................................................................................ 15

Appendix 1............................................................................................................................ 17

Appendix 2............................................................................................................................ 19
ii Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016
Key points | Updated report | What is an e-cigarette 1

Key points

ĵ The combination of an electronic cigarette and a lithium-ion battery is a new and 

unique hazard. There is no analogy among consumer products to the risk of a 

severe, acute injury presented by an e-cigarette.

ĵ Fires or explosions caused by the batteries used in electronic cigarette are uncommon; 

however the consequences can be devastating and life-altering for the victims. 

ĵ It is likely that the number of incidents and injuries will continue to increase. 

ĵ Since the current generation of lithium-ion batteries is the root cause of these incidents, 

it is clear that these batteries are not a safe source of energy for these devices. 

ĵ Between January 2009 and December 31, 2016, 195 separate incidents of explosion 

and fire involving an electronic cigarette were reported by the U.S. media. These 

incidents resulted in 133 acute injuries. Of these injuries, 38 (29 percent) were severe. 

ĵ To date, there have been no deaths in the United States caused by electronic 

cigarette fires or explosions. 

ĵ One hundred and twenty-one (62 percent) of the incidents of explosion and fire 

involving an electronic cigarette or its battery occurred when the device was either 

in a pocket or actively in use.

ĵ The shape and construction of electronic cigarettes can make them (more likely 

than other products with lithium-ion batteries) behave like “flaming rockets” when 

a battery fails. 

ĵ Lithium-ion batteries must be charged in accordance with the manufacturer’s 

instructions. 

Updated report

This report is an update to the report “Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions” published 

by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) in October 2014. Data on electronic cigarette 

incidents that occurred in the U.S. between September 2014 and December 2016 have 

been added to the data reported in the previous report for this analysis. Any additional 

incidents that occurred prior to September 2014 and discovered during this literature 

survey were included in the data reported herein. 

A considerable number of incidents and severe injuries is reported, as well as the 

revelation of a previously unrecognized hazardous condition — electronic cigarette and 

battery explosions in pockets. 

What is an e-cigarette

The term “electronic cigarette” encompasses a whole class of devices with many different 

shapes and configurations. In this report, the term “e-cigarette” will be used generically to 

refer to any or all e-cigarettes, e-cigs, personal vaporizers (PVs), electronic nicotine delivery 

systems (ENDS), mods, or similar devices. 

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices which simulate tobacco smoking by producing 

a heated vapor that resembles smoke. These devices have become very popular as an 

alternative to smoking, including with a growing number of individuals who have never 

been smokers, but who enjoy the many flavors and/or the experience of using e-cigarettes. 
2 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Development

E-cigarettes were first patented in 2003, and have been available for sale in the U.S. since 

2007. E-cigs have been rapidly growing in popularity as the number and selection of 

products expand at an extremely rapid pace. Zhu, et. al. (2014) report that by January 2014, 

there were 466 brands of e-cigarettes and 7,764 unique flavors available for sale. They also 

state that the number of products has been increasing at a rate of 10.5 brands and 242 new 

flavors per month. StatisticBrain1 reports that there were 2,750,000 e-cigarette smokers in 

America and sales of e-cigarette devices and accessories in America exceeded $2.8 billion 

in 2015. Indicators point to continued dynamic growth in the industry. 

What do they look like? How much do they cost?

E-cigarette designs vary greatly. Some resemble a traditional cigarette, cigar or pipe, while 

others resemble a flashlight, or a small pack of cigarettes with a protruding tube. Cell 

phone cases with built-in e-cigarettes are also available. Figure 1 shows three common, 

commercially available devices. 

Prices for the devices range from $30 to over $300, with a corresponding range in battery 

size, liquid capacity, and vapor output. The most basic device is an electronic cigarette, 

which looks like a traditional cigarette. Moving up the line, devices designed to make 

larger quantities of vapor are often called PVs or mods. Users can purchase a wide variety 

of commercially available devices or can make their own. Homemade vaporizers and 

e-liquids are common.

Figure 1. Three of the many e-cigarette styles available.

1

http://www.statisticbrain.com/electronic-cigarette-statistics
What is an e-cigarette 3

How do they work?

The devices have an electric heating element (an atomizer or cartomizer) to vaporize a 

liquid solution. Solutions (also called juice) usually contain a mixture of propylene glycol 

(increases flavor), vegetable glycerin (increases vapor), nicotine, and flavorings. Some 

juices provide flavored vapor without nicotine. Figure 2 shows the principal parts that 

are found in every e-cigarette or vaporizer.

Figure 2. Parts of an electronic cigarette.

Some devices have a light-emitting diode on the 

end to simulate the glow of a burning cigarette.

Heating element/Atomizer 

heats the “juice” to make vapor.

Cartridge 

(tank) holds 

the liquid 

“juice.”

Many devices have a 

switch to activate the 

heating element.

Mouthpiece

Battery

Microprocessor

“Automatic” e-cigarettes activate the heating coil when a user takes a drag from the device. 

Manual e-cigarettes have a switch that the user depresses to energize the heating element 

to make the heated vapor. Most manufactured devices have built-in timeout features that 

prevent overheating, and many have locking features to prevent the switch from being 

activated in a pocket or purse. An LED light to simulate cigarette glow on the end is present 

in some e-cigarettes, but is not common in PVs or mods. 

Alternate uses

E-cigarettes are sometimes used to smoke hash oil or “honey oil”, a cannabis product 

derived by separating the resins from marijuana. Separating hash oil from marijuana is a 

hazardous process, sometimes done illegally in hotels and homes. First responders should 

be aware that this practice exists and the hazards that it presents.2

2For more information see: http://www.rmhidta.org/default.aspx/MenuItemID/691/MenuGroup/

RMHIDTAHome.htm.
4 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Health and safety

The health effects of the vapor and the danger of nicotine overdose by ingestion or dermal 

contact with the juice are the subject of ongoing review by various agencies (Cressey, 2014, 

World Health Organization (WHO), 2014). The regulatory situation related to e-cigarettes 

varies by jurisdiction and is rapidly changing. At the time of publication of this report, the 

following facts were known: 

ĵ On May 10, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule 

that brought e-cigarettes under the FDA’s tobacco product authority. With this rule 

making, FDA now regulates the manufacture, import, packaging, labeling, advertising, 

promotion, sale, and distribution of e-cigarettes. At the time this report was prepared, 

the FDA had extended the compliance deadline until August 10, 2017. 

ĵ The WHO has proposed that member states adopt stringent controls on e-cigarettes 

(2014). The proposal is limited to the potential health effects of e-cigarettes, and does 

not include language addressing the electronics. 

ĵ American Nonsmoker’s Rights Foundation (2017) reports that 12 states and 615 local 

jurisdictions have laws restricting e-cigarette use in smoke-free venues; 15 states and 

503 local jurisdictions have laws that restrict e-cigarette use in other venues. 

ĵ Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has developed standards that relate to lithium-ion 

battery safety. These standards are applied to products containing batteries that 

undergo UL safety testing. In early 2017, UL promulgated UL Standard 8139, Electrical 

Systems of Electronic Cigarettes, which evaluates only the battery and electrical controls 

of an electronic cigarette. 

ĵ No current regulation, code, or law applies to the safety of the electronics or batteries in 

e-cigarettes. While many consumer products are required to be tested by a Nationally 

Recognized Test Laboratory, such as UL, there are no requirements that e-cigarettes be 

subjected to product safety testing. The FDA is considering regulations of the battery 

or electronics used in/with the devices (FDA, 2014; Ledford, 2014).

Methodology

Why did we look at e-cigarettes?

A number of explosions and fires have been attributed to e-cigarettes, causing some concern 

within the fire service community. We conducted this review to gather information to inform 

first responders and other interested parties about the scope and nature of the problem. 

Data sources

Authoritative data on the occurrence of e-cigarette fires and explosions is not easy to find. 

The National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) does not include specific data fields 

on e-cigarettes that will permit the typical analysis of the frequency or impact of these 

incidents. Concurrent with the publication of the 2014 edition of this report, the USFA 

issued an advisory on how to code an e-cigarette incident in an NFIRS report3. The data 

cited in this report includes e-cigarette incidents reported in the NFIRS. 

3USFA, NFIRSGram: Coding an electronic cigarette fire, https://www.usfa.fema.gov/data/nfirs/support/

nfirsgrams/nfirsgram_electronic_cigarettes.html.
Findings 5

It has been recognized that many fires are never reported to the fire department. Fires 

that self-extinguish, or those that are easily extinguished by persons nearby, are frequently 

not reported. The 2014 report showed that the majority of e-cigarette fires fall into this 

category of self- or easily-extinguished. As such, few are reported in the NFIRS database. 

As was done in the previous study, media reports were used to collect information on 

e-cigarette incidents. The internet was searched using a variety of relevant terms and 

multiple search engines to locate media reports on incidents of interest. Incidents were 

logged, and the reports were carefully reviewed to eliminate duplicate reports and to 

extract data of interest. Due to the newsworthy nature of the more severe incidents, there 

were often multiple reports on a single incident, with occasionally conflicting information. 

Every effort was made to eliminate duplication and redundancy. 

There may be other data sources that could shed additional light on the topic. Data from 

emergency-room visits and/or hospital admissions could be informative. Similarly, we are 

aware of emergency medical system databases that could be mined for relevant data. 

Due to time constraints and other factors, these data sources were not queried for the 

present analysis. 

In light of these constraints on the availability of data, and in light of the quality of that 

data, the information presented herein is qualitative rather than quantitative. Readers 

are advised to use the results appropriately. 

Findings

Overview

Reports of 195 separate e-cigarette fire and explosion incidents in the U.S. were found, 

dating from January 2009 to Dec 31, 2016. In 68 percent of these incidents, 133 acute 

injuries were reported. No deaths were reported during the study period. A summary 

spreadsheet of the incidents reported is included in Appendix 2 for reference. 

Figure 3. Status of e-cigarette when the incident occurred

Number of incidents

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

While being transported

Not reported

Storage

Battery being charged

Device in use

In pocket 61

48

18

7

1

60

n = 195
6 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Figure 3 shows the status of the e-cigarettes at the time the incidents occurred. 

ĵ Sixty-one incidents occurred when either the device or spare batteries for the device 

were in a pocket. 

ĵ Sixty incidents occurred while the device was being used.

ĵ Forty-eight incidents occurred while the battery in the device was being charged. 

ĵ Eighteen incidents occurred while the device or battery was stored. 

ĵ In seven incidents, it is not reported whether the e-cigarette was in use, stored, or 

being charged.

ĵ One incident occurred during transportation on a cargo aircraft. 

Media reports generally characterize these incidents as explosions. While there is generally 

a brief period of overheating and off-gassing at the onset of the event, the events tend to 

occur suddenly, and are accompanied by loud noise, a flash of light, smoke, flames, and 

often vigorous ejection of the battery and other parts. A number of the media reports 

state that the battery or other components of the device were ejected under pressure and 

“flew across the room,” often igniting combustible items where they landed. 

Injuries

In 133 (68 percent) of the reported fire and explosion incidents involving e-cigarettes, a 

single individual was injured.34 Figure 4 illustrates the number and severity of injuries in 

e-cigarette fires and explosions. 

Figure 4. Injuries reported in e-cigarette incidents

Number of injuries

0 20 40 60 80 100

Minor

Severe

None/Not reported

Moderate 80

62

38

15

n = 195

ĵ Thirty-eight of the incidents resulted in severe injury to an individual, meaning that 

the victim required hospitalization, and may have suffered loss of a body part, 3rd 

degree burns, or facial injuries. 

ĵ Eighty victims suffered moderate injuries, which were defined as persons requiring 

treatment in the emergency room for smoke inhalation, 2nd degree burns, or lacerations 

requiring stitches. Typically, incidents reported as moderate injuries did not require 

admission to the hospital. 

4Press in the United Kingdom has reported one death in an August 2014 incident where an e-cigarette that 

was being charged in a non-manufacturer approved device exploded and ignited nearby oxygen equipment.
Findings 7

ĵ Fifteen individuals suffered minor injuries, including smoke inhalation, minor lacerations, 

or 1st degree burns. Emergency room treatment may or may not have been provided. 

ĵ No injuries were reported in 62 (32 percent) of the incidents. 

The incidents involving severe injuries occurred while the e-cigarette device was in the 

victim’s mouth, in very close proximity to their face, on in a pocket. This inherent intimacy 

with the device is what makes the e-cigarette hazard unique among consumer products. 

No other consumer product that is typically used so close to the human body contains 

the lithium-ion battery that is the root cause of the incidents.

Did the fires spread?

Of the reported fire and explosion incidents involving e-cigarettes, 128 (66 percent) 

resulted in ignition of nearby contents such as clothing, carpets, drapes, bedding, couches, 

or vehicle seats. Users were generally nearby when the incident occurred, were alerted by 

the sound of the explosion, and were able to take action to extinguish the fires while they 

were still small. Figure 5 shows the distribution of fire spread due to e-cigarette incidents. 

Figure 5. Fire spread in e-cigarette fire and explosion incidents.

Number of incidents

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Major

Moderate

None reported

Minor 91

67

27

10

n = 195

ĵ In 91 incidents, the fire spread was minor, meaning that the scorching or flames either 

self-extinguished or were extinguished very quickly by persons nearby. Typically, in 

these incidents, the burned areas were 6 inches or less in diameter.

ĵ In 27 incidents, the fire spread was moderate, where the burned area was larger 

than 6 inches in diameter, but the fire was extinguished by occupants before the fire 

department arrived. 

ĵ In 10 incidents, the fire spread was major and involved significant portions of a building, 

and required suppression by the fire department. Typically, these incidents are what 

the fire service refers to as “room and contents” type fires, or larger. 

ĵ In 67 of the incidents (34 percent), there was no fire spread, or fire spread was not 

evident in the reports reviewed. 
8 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

How the fires were suppressed

The battery in the e-cigarette contains a limited amount of combustible material. If the 

burning battery and/or e-cigarette comes into contact with a material that is easily ignited, 

such as bedding or clothing, a fire can easily spread and grow. The media reports were 

reviewed to determine how the ensuing fires were suppressed; the results are shown in 

Figure 6. 

Figure 6. How e-cigarette fire incidents were suppressed.

Number of incidents

0 50 100 150 200

Automatic system

Not reported

Fire department

Self- or occupantextinguished 168

18

8

1

n = 195

ĵ In 168 incidents, the fires either self-extinguished or were extinguished very quickly 

by persons nearby.

ĵ In 18 incidents, the fire department performed final suppression of the fire. 

ĵ In 8 incidents, the mode of fire suppression was not reported. 

ĵ In 1 incident, an automatic fire suppression system extinguished the fire. 

Trends

Figure 7 and Figure 8 show that the number of e-cigarette fires and explosions is increasing 

over time. An increase in the number of e-cigarette fires and explosions was postulated 

in the 2014 report and appears to correlate well with the increase in sales of e-cigarettes. 
Findings 9

Figure 7. Number of e-cigarette fires and explosions. Number of incidents

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

98

15

24

3 1 0 1

n = 195

Figure 8. E-Cigarette fires and explosions compared to sales. E-cigarette sales ($1,000,000)

Number of incidents

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 0

20

40

60

80

100 E-cigarette sales (million $)

Annual number of incidents

E-cigarette sales data from http://www.statisticbrain.com/electronic-cigarette-statistics/ on 3/27/2017.

Figure 9 illustrates the increasing number of severe and moderate injuries resulting from 

e-cigarette explosions and fires. Note the increase in number of severe injuries since 2014. 

This appears to correlate well with the e-cigarette sales trend shown in Figure 8.
10 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Figure 9. Incidence of severe and moderate injuries from e-cigarette explosions 

and fires. Number of injuries

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

52

20

14

21

Severe injuries

Moderate injuries

Always use the charging appliance that comes with the unit, and follow the 

manufacturer’s instructions. Plugging an e-cigarette into a “standard” USB port to 

recharge may result in an explosion and/or fire. 
A new and unique hazard to consumers 11

A new and unique hazard to consumers

The e-cigarette/lithium-ion battery combination presents a new and unique hazard to 

consumers. No other consumer product places a battery with a known explosion hazard 

such as this in such close proximity to the human body. It is this intimate contact between 

the body and the battery that is most responsible for the severity of the injuries that have 

been seen. While the failure rate of the lithium-ion batteries is very small, the consequences 

of a failure, as we have seen, can be severe and life-altering for the consumer. 

Responsible battery and e-cigarette manufacturers are working hard to develop remedies 

for the known lithium-ion battery failures. Indeed, good and successful solutions have 

been put into production by responsible manufacturers. Unfortunately, the manufacturers 

cannot control what modifications are made by the consumer, or what replacement 

battery is installed into the e-cigarette by the consumer. The impact of safety features on 

consumer safety can be dampened by consumer behavior. 

Spare batteries

Many consumers purchase spare batteries so they can vape through the day without 

having to recharge batteries. Many vape shops sell plastic cases to store and carry the 

spare batteries; these are intended to prevent a battery short-circuit (and the ensuing 

explosion) if the terminals of the battery come into contact with keys or spare change in 

a pocket. As noted above, the device or battery in a pocket was the leading status of the 

e-cigarette at the time of the incident (Figure 3). 

Users procure spare batteries from a number of sources. Some purchase spare batteries 

with their device in the anticipation that the battery will be compatible with the protection 

circuitry in the device. Others will salvage lithium-ion batteries from old laptop computers 

or power tool battery packs. While salvaged batteries can be essentially free, few users 

understand that such batteries rarely have protective circuitry built in, since robust 

protective circuitry is typically integrated into the battery pack and/or the original device. 

Still other users purchase spare batteries from a variety of sources. 

A quick search of online sales or auction sites will show thousands of listings for 18650 

batteries, a lithium-ion battery frequently used in e-cigarettes and many other consumer 

devices. Most of the listings will highlight the energy capacity in milli-amp hours (mAh) 

of the battery being offered; typical listings vary from 2,500 mAh to 6,000 mAh. Many 

consumers will gravitate to the higher capacity batteries to gain the longest use. 

Unfortunately, many of these claims are unsubstantiated or misleading. The space inside 

the case of every 18650 battery for the battery components is the same, and the capacity 

varies considerably depending on the current draw. 

Similarly, many of the online listings will claim that a battery is “protected” or “has 

protection,” implying protection against overcharging, overheating, or other deleterious 

events. While the manufacturer may (or may not) be placing a protection circuit in the 

battery, there is generally little technical information available about this “protection” that 

even an advanced user could access. 
12 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Do it yourself

Further compounding the safety situation is the fact that a substantial number of 

e-cigarette users either construct their own devices from widely available parts or modify 

commercial products to suit their desires. Since the data reviewed in preparing this report 

do not provide sufficient information to permit any conclusion about how many of the 

incidents reported involved homemade or modified devices, it is not possible to draw valid 

conclusions about how these practices could be impacting the incidence of fires. 

There are a number of sites on the internet that provide instructional material on how to 

safely construct or modify a device. Many vape shops also offer advice and instruction 

for the do-it-yourself vaper. The quality of the instruction and advice available varies 

widely, and even the best of those that were reviewed in the preparation of this report 

are incomplete in that they overlook elements of battery/system safety or rely on 

poorly-documented system components. Without a proper engineering analysis, neither 

purchasing a battery that has “protection,” nor adding a generic “protection circuit” to a 

device, can be a guarantee that the desired level of protection will be provided. 

Safety standards

UL has recently promulgated UL Standard 8139, Electrical Systems of 

Electronic Cigarettes. This new test standard will evaluate the safety of 

the electrical and battery systems of e-cigarettes, in the hope that fires 

and explosions resulting from the battery and electrical system can be 

eliminated. 

It is important to understand what UL8139 will not do. UL advises that, 

“These requirements do not cover the consumable of the electronic cigarette, 

such as e-Liquids and other inhaled vapor substances, wicks, and other 

particulate matter inhaled during use. These requirements do not consider 

the physiological effects of any consumable used with the product.”

Most Americans are familiar with the UL listing mark and look for this certification when 

purchasing electrical products. E-cigarettes that are UL-listed using this new test standard 

should provide a level of assurance of safety to consumers that has not been available 

before. However, this assurance is not absolute, since manufacturing defects and damage 

to the product can still occur. 

This new UL standard is an important development in the safety of these devices and 

should serve to reduce the number of e-cigarette fires and explosions, as well as the 

number of injuries that American consumers have experienced from these products. 
Conclusions 13

Conclusions

E-cigarettes using lithium-ion batteries present a new and unique hazard to consumers. 

No other consumer product places a battery with a known explosion hazard such as this 

in such close proximity to vital areas of the human body. In order to reduce the frequency 

of e-cigarette fires and explosions, the following recommendations should be considered:

ĵ Consumers should look for and demand e-cigarette products that have been evaluated 

for safety and that are listed by UL. Look for the UL mark on the product and packaging. 

ĵ The long-term effects of the new UL safety standard cannot be determined at this 

time. Even with improved protection circuitry in an e-cigarette device, and with 100 

percent compliance in providing such protection, there remains a possibility of battery 

failure and severe injury. Manufacturing defects and damage to the device or battery 

simply cannot be eliminated.

ĵ Lithium-ion batteries should not be used in e-cigarettes. While the number of batteries 

that explode and catch fire is statistically small, the catastrophic nature of the injuries 

that can occur warrants the use of another battery technology for e-cigarettes.

ĵ As long as lithium-ion batteries continue to be used in e-cigarettes, severe injuries will 

continue to occur. As the number of e-cigarettes in use increases, the number of severe 

injuries from lithium-ion battery explosions and fires will likely continue to increase. 

ĵ Suppliers, industry associations, user groups, and fire prevention educators should 

all stress the importance of using UL-listed devices and proper charging practices to 

reduce the number of incidents. Stronger warnings in the literature and user manuals 

may be helpful.
14 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016
References 15

References

Amon, F., Andersson, P., Karlson, I., & Sahlin, E. (2012). Fire risks associated with batteries.

SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden. SP Report 2012:66.

American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation. (2017). States and municipalities with laws 

regulating use of electronic cigarettes. Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights.

Cressey, D. (2014). E-cigarettes: The lingering questions. Nature, 513, 24–26, 

doi:10.1038/513024a

FDA (2014). Deeming tobacco products to be subject to the Federal Food, Drug, and 

Cosmetic Act, as amended by the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act; 

regulations on the sale and distribution of tobacco products and required warning 

statements for tobacco products. Federal Register. Retrieved from https://federalregister.

gov/a/2014-09491

Ledford, H. (2014). FDA proposes regulation of electronic cigarettes. Nature, doi:10.1038/

nature.2014.15105

Mikolajczak, C., Kahn, M., White, K., & Long, R. T. (2011). Lithium-ion batteries hazard and 

use assessment. Fire Protection Research Foundation.

Richtel, M. (2014). A bolder effort by big tobacco on e-cigarettes. The New York Times.

Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/business/a-bolder-effort-bybig-tobacco-on-e-cigarettes.html?src=un&feedurl=http%3A%2F%2Fjson8.nytimes.

com%2Fpages%2Fbusiness%2Findex.jsonp

UL. (2010). Safety issues for lithium-ion batteries. Underwriters Laboratories.

WHO. (2014). Electronic nicotine delivery systems. Conference of the Parties to the WHO 

Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Zhu, S. H., Sun, J. Y., Bonnevie, E., Cummins, S., Gamst, A., Yin, L., & Lee, M. (2014). 

Four hundred and sixty brands of e-cigarettes and counting: Implications for product 

regulation. Tobacco Control Act 2014, 23: iii3-iii9. doi:10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2014-051670
16 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016
Appendix 1 17

Appendix 1

A primer on lithium-ion battery failure in e-cigarettes

Lithium-ion-polymer (Li-ion) batteries are excellent power supplies for portable devices 

and are widely used by consumers, industry, and the emergency services. Li-ion batteries 

are known to experience statistically rare failure events, including fire and explosions 

(Mikolajczak, Kahn, White & Long, 2011). Indeed, there are multiple reports of fires caused 

by failures of Li-ion batteries in cell phones, laptop computers, medical devices, electric 

cars, power tools, hoverboards, and a myriad of other electronic devices. 

Why do Li-ion batteries catch fire?

A cylindrical Li-ion battery is made by winding alternating layers of 

metallic anode and cathode material separated by a porous film. The 

porous separator film holds a liquid electrolyte made of an organic 

solvent and dissolved lithium salts. This core is placed into a cylindrical 

metal can through the open end, and the can is then sealed tightly closed 

so that the liquid electrolyte cannot escape or evaporate. 

All of the electrolytes currently used in Li-ion batteries are either flammable or combustible 

liquids. It is this flammable electrolyte that causes the fire and explosion when the Li-ion 

battery overheats.5 Scientists are working to develop nonflammable electrolytes for Li-ion 

batteries, but these are not yet available in the market. 

During the typical failure mode for a Li-ion battery, the electrolyte is heated to its boiling 

point.6 The internal pressure in the battery builds to a point where the seal at the end 

of the battery ruptures, and the pressure is abruptly released through the sealed end of 

the battery case. Usually, the electrolyte then ignites, and expanding gas from the rapid 

combustion will further increase the pressure. The fire is sustained briefly after initial 

ignition by the porous separator film, which is made of plastic. Mikolajczak, et al. (2011) 

provide detailed descriptions and explanations of the various failure modes that Li-ion 

batteries can experience. A number of videos showing Li-ion battery ignition can be easily 

found on the internet. 

Why is the impact of battery failure different in e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes are different from other electronic consumer devices because the battery is 

installed in a cylindrical device (the e-cigarette) that has its weakest (structural) point at 

the ends. When the battery seal (at the end of the battery) ruptures, the pressure within 

the e-cigarette cylinder builds quickly until it ruptures, usually at the end. As a result of 

the battery and container failure, one or the other, or both, can be propelled across the 

room like a bullet or small rocket. 

In contrast to e-cigarettes, the cylindrical Li-ion batteries used in laptop computers and 

portable tools are contained in rigid plastic cases that are generally strong enough to 

prevent the failing battery from rocketing away. Fires do occur as a result of battery failure, 

but most fires initially involve only the device that the battery pack is installed in.7

5A variety of organic solvents are used, alone or in combinations. The boiling points of the electrolytes range 

from 200°F to 500°F, and ignition temperatures range from 60°F to 300°F. 

6Overheating of the battery (thermal runaway) can be caused by: puncture, overcharge, external heat, short 

circuit, or internal cell fault.

7

A laboratory experiment showing worst-case Li-ion battery failures in a laptop computer can be seen at https://

www.youtube.com/watch?v=pizFsY0yjss#t=250. 
18 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

Cell phones, tablets, and other devices use pouch-type 

Li-ion batteries that are flat, rather than cylindrical in 

shape, and are encased in a sealed flexible plastic pouch 

or rigid plastic case instead of a metal can. These pouchtype batteries will not build up much pressure when they 

overheat and do not explode violently when they fail. 

Pouch batteries can, and have, overheated to the point 

where the pouch bursts, the electrolyte ignites and a fire 

spreads beyond the device.8

What safeguards are used to prevent fires in Li-ion batteries?

Several different approaches to protecting Li-ion batteries against explosion or fire have 

been developed. Protection can be built into the battery, into the charging appliance, 

or into the electronics that control the charging cycle and/or the current draw. Often, a 

combination of these approaches is used in a product. Amon, Andersson, Karlson, and 

Sahlin (2012) conclude that the risk of fire depends heavily on the type and effectiveness 

of the protection system used. 

The protection appropriate for a particular device or appliance is determined by the device 

manufacturer, and/or by regulations or standards that apply to that product. Since there 

are no regulatory standards directly applicable to e-cigarettes, the selection of protection 

for the Li-ion battery is left to the manufacturers’ best judgment. The fact that, statistically, 

so few of these devices are failing in the ways described in the media reports suggests 

that e-cigarette manufacturers have been largely successful in preventing battery fires. 

8Failure of an intentionally overloaded pouch-type Li-ion battery can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/

watch?v=SMy2_qNO2Y0&index=8&list=PLkLKD6x5giq2LyjhKbJt-OYR8kiAN8_UW.
Appendix 2 19

Appendix 2

E-cigarette fires and explosion incidents 

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Aug

2009

Minneapolis, 

MN Transport Moderate None System

Fire in a cargo container 

on a FedEx® jet discovered 

during approach to 

landing. Fire suppression 

system activated. Fire 

was linked to lithium-ion 

batteries in box of Ruyan 

inhalers, model RappEMystick.

Nov

2011 Greeley, CO Use No Severe Self or occupant

A man was hospitalized 

for eight days after an 

electronic cigarette 

exploded in his face, 

sending burning debris 

and battery acid into his 

mouth, face and eyes. 

Prodigy V3.1 e-cig cited, 

as well as Radio Shack 

Enercell battery.

https://www.consumeraffairs.

com/news04/2012/04/ecigarette-exploded-in-mansface-suit-charges.html

Feb

2012 Niceville, FL Use No Severe Self or occupant

E-cigarette explodes in 

mouth causing severe 

burns, lost teeth and part 

of tongue. Lots of press 

coverage on this one. 

Some stories report that 

the device may have been 

modified by the user.

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/

electronic-cigarette-explodesin-mans-mouth-causes-seriousinjuries/
20 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Apr

2012 Muskogee, OK Use No None Self or occupant

New e-cig exploded when 

withdrawn from packaging.

http://www.motherjones.com/

environment/2014/04/

e-cigarettes-explode-fda-timeline

Nov

2012 Sherman, TX Charge No Moderate Not reported

Battery into two-hour 

charge exploded in users 

hand. Second and third 

degree burns on hand and 

smoke inhalation.

http://www.kxii.com/news/

headlines/E-cigaretteexplodes-in-Texoma-manshome-215771641.html

Apr

2013 Glendale, AZ Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Exploded while charging 

from USB adaptor in car. 

Hot fragments ignited 

back seat upholstery.

http://www.kpho.com/

story/22066822/unattendedelectronic-cigarette-chargerexplodes-car-catches-fire

Apr

2013

Oklahoma 

City, OK Storage Moderate Minor Not reported

Explosion of lithium-ion 

battery in e-cig in office. 

Occupant treated for 

inhalation.

http://www.koco.com/

news/oklahomanews/okc/

Police-Explosion-at-apartmentcomplex-came-from-ecigarette/19768650#!T8hDI

Jul

2013 Corona, CA Charge Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Charging in car led to 

“blowtorch” fire and 

explosion. Debris flew into 

occupant’s lap, resulting 

in second degree burns 

on upper thighs and lower 

buttocks. Driver used coffee 

to extinguish the fire.

http://losangeles.cbslocal.

com/2013/07/11/corona-couplesues-after-e-cigarette-batteryexplodes-in-car/

Jul

2013

Oklahoma 

City, OK Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded and 

shot across the room 

15 minutes after being 

plugged into charger. Burn 

marks on carpet and wall.

http://kfor.com/2013/08/01/ecigarette-explodes-and-sparkssmall-fire/
Appendix 2 21

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jul

2013 Tulsa, OK Charge Minor Not Reported

Not 

reported

Fire while charging off 

laptop.

http://www.newson6.com/

story/22536957/tulsa-mans-ecig-catches-fire-while-charging

Jul

2013 Claremont, CA Storage Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

E-cigarette charging in car 

overheated and exploded. 

Parts landed in female 

occupant’s lap and caused 

burns. Reported second 

degree burns on back of 

upper thighs and lower 

buttocks.

http://losangeles.cbslocal.

com/2013/07/11/corona-couplesues-after-e-cigarette-batteryexplodes-in-car/

Aug

2013

Oklahoma 

City, OK Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded while 

being charged.

http://kfor.com/2013/08/01/ecigarette-explodes-and-sparkssmall-fire/

Aug

2013 Phoenix, AZ Charge Minor None Self or occupant

This one ignited carpet, 

was put out by resident. 

Video shows plugging into 

white laptop for charge.

http://www.azfamily.com/

Global/story.asp?S=28374147

Aug

2013 Phoenix, AZ Charge Major Minor Fire department

Resident states in article 

that e-cig started two fires 

in their bedroom in recent 

days. They just exploded. 

Charging for about 20 

minutes. First incident 

scorched carpet, second 

gutted the bedroom. 

Resident treated for 

smoke inhalation. (Smokin 

Time brand cited.)

http://www.kptv.com/

story/23785774/phoenix-fd

http://www.kpho.com/

story/23273275/e-cigarettenearly-sparks-fire-at-phoenixapartment
22 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Sep

2013

Grant Park, 

GA Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded during 

charging, shooting 

flame across the room. 

Scorch mark on couch, 

hole burned in carpet. 

Occupant used a rag 

to control.

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/

news/local/woman-says-ecigarette-exploded-shot-flames4-feet/nZkCX/

http://www.businessinsider.

com/e-cigarettes-are-exploding-

-literally-2013-9?op=1

Sep

2013

Binghamton, 

NY Charge Moderate None Fire department

Fire in home caused by 

charging e-cig.

http://www.wbng.com/

story/32982757/fire-marshalcharging-electronic-cigarettesparked-fire

Sep

2013 Provo, UT Charge Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

Explosion while charging 

in car. Hot fragments 

ignited baby’s car seat 

in back seat resulting in 

first and second degree 

burns to 3 year old. 

Driver used iced coffee to 

extinguish fire.

http://newsone.com/2724915/ecigarette-fire-utah-kinziebarlow/

Oct

2013 La Crosse, WI Charge Minor Not Reported

Self or 

occupant

Story highlights several 

incidents during charging. 

Lack of overcurrent/

overheat circuitry 

implicated.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

news/article-2442715/Ecigarette-explosion-causesWisconsin-home.html

Oct

2013 Valparaiso, FL Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Explosion while charging 

from USB port, igniting 

curtains. Occurred after 

10 minutes charging.

http://www.nwfdailynews.

com/1.214335
Appendix 2 23

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Oct

2013 Blaine, MN Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Exploded and shot across 

the room while charging 

on USB plugged into 

computer. Carpet burned 

in several spots.

Original story accessed October 

2014 from www.fox9.com (KMSP, 

Eden Prairie, MN) has been 

removed.

Nov

2013

Kootenai 

County, ID Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Explosion while charging 

from USB port of laptop. 

Ignited couch. Smoke 

alarm alerted the sleeping 

family of four.

http://www.wptv.com/news/localnews/water-cooler/e-cigaretteblamed-for-house-fire-in-idahoelectronic-cigarette-batteryovercharged-and-exploded

Nov

2013 Warren, MI Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device blew out of wall 

socket in ball of fire. 

Scorched hardwood 

flooring before occupant 

extinguished it. TV video 

report shows a USB wall 

charger that does not 

match those supplied by 

the manufacturer (Bulldog 

brand cited).

http://www.wxyz.com/news/

warren-woman-says-electroniccigarette-caused-smallexplosion-and-fire

Nov

2013 Eugene, OR Charge Moderate None Not reported

Device failed after about 

two hours charging. 

Fragments flew to back 

seat, igniting seat of truck.

http://www.kval.com/news/

local/e-cig-explodes-damagingtruck

Nov

2013

Queen Creek, 

AZ Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Exploded while charging, 

shooting across the room. 

Impacted window, fell to 

floor and ignited carpet.

http://www.motherjones.

com/environment/2014/04/ecigarettes-explode-fda-timeline

http://www.azfamily.com/

story/28374147/explodingelectronic-cigarette-blamedfor-fire
24 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Nov

2013

Colorado 

Springs, CO Charge Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

Unattended while 

charging on floor. Ignited 

bed. Home occupant 

burned arms, hands and 

face while using blanket to 

smother flames.

http://www.krdo.com/news/

local-news/e-cigarette-blamedfor-mattress-fire/34229451

Dec

2013

Salt Lake City, 

UT Charge Minor None Self or occupant

E-cig exploded while being 

charged through USB port 

on a computer.

http://fox13now.

com/2013/12/09/e-cigaretteexplodes-while-charging/

Dec

2013

Springfield, 

MO Charge Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

Failure while charging on 

laptop USB port. Ignited 

bedding, second degree 

burns on leg and foot. User 

quoted as saying he likely 

used the wrong charger.

Original story accessed 

October 2014 from www.ky3.

com (Springfield MO) has been 

removed.

Dec

2013

Salt Lake City, 

UT Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded while 

being charged. Shot across 

the room; minor burn 

marks.

http://fox13now.

com/2013/12/09/e-cigaretteexplodes-while-charging/

Dec

2013 Phoenix, AZ Charge Major None Fire department

E-cig being charged 

exploded on bed, igniting 

room and contents.

http://www.abc15.com/news/

local-news/investigations/

phoenix-fire-departmentofficials-warn-electroniccigarette-users-about-fire-danger

Jan

2014

Sneads Ferry, 

NC Use No Minor Self or occupant

Device erupted in his face. 

Temporary blindness, 

minor burns to face.

http://www.jdnews.

com/20140111/man-injuredafter-e-cig-blows-up/301119930
Appendix 2 25

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Mar

2014 Medford, OR Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Exploded while being 

charged, sending bits of 

burning battery flying 

into the ceiling and walls. 

One hot piece of battery 

landed on a pillow, causing 

it to smolder and filling the 

house with smoke.

http://www.katu.com/news/

local/Fire-marshal-e-cigarettebatteries-cause-fires-inMedford-248274331.html

Mar

2014 Medford, OR Charge Minor None Self or occupant

The lithium batteries that 

power the vaporizers 

in electronic cigarettes 

caused two recent fires in 

Medford. In this second 

case, a mattress caught 

fire, but a resident put it 

out.

http://www.katu.com/news/

local/Fire-marshal-e-cigarettebatteries-cause-fires-inMedford-248274331.html

Mar

2014 Lompoc, CA Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Started kitchen fire while 

charging unattended.

Original story accessed 

October 2014 from www.ksby.

com (San Louis Obisbo, CA) has 

been removed.

Mar

2014 Syracuse, NY Not reported Moderate Severe Self or occupant

Patient on oxygen in a 

hospital suffered first and 

second degree burns. 

Patient had e-cig, but 

investigation has not yet 

tied e-cig to the ignition. 

Hospital has banned 

e-cigs out of caution. 

Patient transferred to area 

burn unit.

http://www.foxnews.com/

us/2014/04/22/ny-hospitalreinforces-ban-after-e-cigarettefire/
26 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Apr

2014

Goffstown, 

NH Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Resident reported to 

fire department that 

e-cigarette was left in 

bedroom to charge. 

Shortly thereafter, 

resident heard a loud 

bang and on investigating 

discovered a small fire in 

the carpet of the bedroom. 

Resident extinguished the 

fire and found e-cigarette 

pieces on the carpet.

Direct report from Lt. Bill 

Connor, EFO, Goffstown Fire 

Department.

Apr

2014 Destin, FL Use No Severe Self or occupant

Vape blew up in his face. 

Dime-sized hole in the 

roof of his mouth. Burns 

to hand, fractured neck 

and finger, burns to 

cornea, damaged teeth.

http://www.fox5dc.com/news/

national/17391566-story

May

2014 Orlando, FL Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Resident heard a loud 

bang in bedroom where 

e-cigarette was charging 

and discovered carpet on 

fire when she investigated. 

Resident extinguished 

the fire.

http://www.wftv.com/

news/news/local/Action-9-

investigates-electronic-cigarettecharger/ngwJM/

Jul

2014

Oklahoma 

City, OK Charge Major None Fire department

Device exploded while 

being charged. Ignited 

home fire.

http://www.news9.com/

story/25939272/e-cigarettecharger-explodes-causes-housefire
Appendix 2 27

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jul

2014

Lawrenceville, 

NJ Charge Major None Self or occupant

E-cigarette left 

unattended for two plus 

hours in an aftermarket 

charger in a vehicle 

failed and started fire 

in rear seats. Windows 

were closed, so fire 

self-extinguished; sedan 

interior was extensively 

damaged.

http://njiaai.org/electroniccigarette-was-overchargedcausing-a-fire/

Aug

2014 Boston, MA Storage Minor None Self or occupant

E-cigarette packed in 

checked luggage ignited 

in the baggage hold of a 

commercial airliner before 

takeoff. Burned a “small 

hole” in the bag.

http://www.nytimes.

com/2014/08/14/business/ecigarettes-under-scrutiny-forlisting-as-flight-hazard.html?_r=0

Sep

2014 Honolulu, HI Charge Minor None Fire department

Unattended charging via 

typical AC USB adaptor. 

Occupant returned to 

find kitchen counter 

and contents burning. 

Occupant extinguished 

the fire and called fire 

department.

http://www.hawaiinewsnow.

com/story/26659072/explosionat-honolulu-apartment-blamedon-e-cigarette

Nov

2014

College Park, 

MD Use Minor None Fire department

A sparking e-cigarette 

was discarded into a 

university trash can, 

igniting the contents. Fire 

department responded 

and extinguished the 

fire. No damage beyond 

the trash.

http://www.diamondbackonline.

com/news/campus/

article_dfefbb78-6ac9-11e4-

86ee-97c41f1e0c8e.html
28 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Nov

2014 Tacoma, WA Not reported Major Moderate Fire department

A woman living on the 

bottom floor of the 

building told her neighbors 

an e-cigarette exploded 

and caught her couch on 

fire. Fire investigators told 

KIRO 7 she had burns on 

her hand. One man was 

taken to the hospital for 

smoke inhalation and 

burns. Fire spread to 

multiple rooms and floors 

in this six-unit apartment.

http://www.kirotv.com/news/

news/1-taken-hospital-tacomahouse-fire/nh5Tq/

Dec

2014 Marion, OH Charge Moderate None Fire department

It appeared the e-cigarette 

had been plugged into a 

cellphone charger, which 

was not compatible. The 

outlet set the curtains on 

fire, which spread to the 

couch. Minor smoke damage 

to home, no injuries.

http://www.marionstar.com/

story/news/local/2014/12/17/

cigarette-causes-homefire/20542429/

Jan

2015 NJ Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device in pants pocket 

exploded without 

warning. Pants leg ignited. 

Victim sustained partialthickness burn to right leg.

http://pubs.sciepub.com/

ajmcr/3/4/1/

Jan

2015 Sparks, NV Charge Minor None Fire department

E-cig in a nonstandard 

charger exploded in a 

high school gym. Minor 

damage to the gym floor.

http://www.kolotv.com/

home/headlines/Code-YellowLockdown-in-Effect-at-SparksHigh-288294081.html
Appendix 2 29

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jan

2015 Oak Ridge, TN Charge Minor None Self or occupant

An East Tennessee woman 

says her home caught on 

fire after an e-cigarette 

exploded while it was on the 

charger. It happened around 

5 a.m. Wednesday. She says 

she was awake and quickly 

put out the flames.

http://www.local8now.com/

home/headlines/Oak-Ridgewomans-e-cigarette-blows-upwhile-charging-288744041.html

Jan

2015 Latrobe, PA Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

E-cigarette battery 

charging above a garbage 

can. The garbage can 

caught on fire and burned 

some wiring in the room 

near the outlet.

NFIRS 000027

Feb

2015 Arlington, TX Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Batteries for e-cig 

exploded in pants pocket. 

Victim suffered first and 

second degree burns on 

upper thigh and crotch.

http://www.star-telegram.

com/news/local/community/

arlington/article13493492.html

Feb

2015 Yuba City, CA Not reported Minor None Self or occupant

E-cig exploded and burned 

carpet. No information in 

report regarding charging.

http://fox40.com/2015/02/18/ecigarette-almost-claims-manslife/

Feb

2015

Wilbraham, 

MA Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Battery exploded when 

plugged into computer to 

charge. Rocketed across 

the room causing small 

carpet burns.

NFIRS 0000244
30 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Feb

2015 Ramona, CA Use No Severe Fire department

Authorities responded 

to the Stage Stop Liquor 

Store in Ramona Sunday 

evening after an e-cigarette 

exploded, burning an 

employee and damaging 

the store. Materials from 

the e-cigarette cut the 

man’s face and shattered 

a glass display inside the 

store, the captain said. 

Victim was hospitalized 

with facial burns.

http://fox5sandiego.

com/2015/02/09/e-cigaretteexplodes-in-mans-face/

Feb

2015 Anaheim, CA Use No Minor Not reported

Witnesses told police 

that the 17-year-old boy 

was holding an electronic 

cigarette in the moments 

before the explosion. 

Victim suffered cuts and 

burns to his hand.

http://www.latimes.com/local/

lanow/la-me-ln-ecigaretteexplosion-oc-teen-20150210-

story.html 

http://abc7.com/

news/e-cigarettes-may-lead-toexplosions-fires/513968/
Appendix 2 31

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Feb

2015 CA Use No Severe Self or occupant

When victim brought the 

device up to his face to see 

if it was making the hissing 

sound, it exploded. The 

tank hit him in the face, 

the mouth piece blasted 

through his cheek leaving 

a ragged hole, and the 

bottom of the tank blew off 

and caught fire. A nearby 

curtain, blanket and chair 

caught fire. Second degree 

burns to face, ear and neck, 

also broken cheekbone and 

concussion.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

news/article-3327374/

Former-LA-Galaxy-starsuffers-hole-cheek-e-cigaretteexploded-face-industry-facesstring-lawsuits-victims-saysuffered-burns-lost-FINGERS.

html

Mar

2015 Gates, NY Use Minor Moderate Not reported

MOD failed 30 seconds 

after battery was inserted. 

Victim required about 

six stitches to close hand 

laceration.

https://www.youtube.com/

watch?v=o3ilX9nln2E

Mar

2015 Santa Ana, CA Use No Minor Not reported

Victim was smoking a MOD 

e-cigarette about 1:45 a.m. 

Treated for flash burns 

to face and hand, and 

lacerations to the hand.

http://www.latimes.com/local/

lanow/la-me-ln-man-ecigaretteexplodes-santa-ana-20150309-

story.html

http://losangeles.cbslocal.

com/2015/03/09/e-cigaretteexplosion-burns-oc-mans-faceand-sets-fire-to-bed/
32 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Apr

2015

Little Egg 

Harbor, NJ Charge Minor None Not reported

Consumer using cellphone 

wall charger instead of 

e-cig charger (USB cord). 

Char marks in kitchen.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.

com/news/breaking/little-eggharbor-knows-e-cigarettes-canexplode/article_6f7693d0-ed4b11e4-b70f-a3cb9214b370.html

Apr

2015 Jupiter, FL Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pants 

pocket. Severe burns to leg.

http://palmbeachhealthbeat.

blog.palmbeachpost.

com/2015/05/27/jupiterschoolteacher-claims-vapebattery-exploded-in-pants/

Apr

2015

N. Myrtle 

Beach, SC Charge Minor None Self or occupant

The event occurred April 8, 

2015. The device was being 

charged; a loud noise was 

heard. After which, a fire 

was found in a suitcase 

which was open. A dry 

chemical extinguisher 

was used to extinguish. 

Products cited: AC Adapter 

Eleaf Model: DEK-OC-001 

Output 5.0 V. Battery pack: 

Brand VaVaVape

Direct report from Keith 

Williams, Fire Marshal, Fire 

Prevention Division, City of 

North Myrtle Beach, 1018 

Second Ave. South, North 

Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29582. (843) 

280-5614 Office. krwilliams@

nmb.us

Jun

2015

Coeur 

D’Alene, ID Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device in wall charger not 

provided with the e-cig. 

Battery failed, igniting 

carpet. Extinguished 

by hotel manager with 

extinguisher.

http://www.krem.com/

story/news/local/kootenaicounty/2015/06/18/e-cigarettein-wrong-charger-sparks-coeurdalene-fire/28961587/

Jun

2015 Austin, TX Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Extra battery exploded in 

pocket, causing first and 

second degree burns on leg.

http://www.theblaze.com/

stories/2015/07/22/e-cigaretteblows-up-like-a-firecracker-inmans-pocket/
Appendix 2 33

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jul

2015

Miramar 

Beach, FL Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in mouth. 

Severe injuries reported.

http://www.waltonsun.

com/1.498698

Jul

2015 Las Vegas, NV Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg.

http://www.reviewjournal.com/

news/las-vegas/las-vegas-manfiles-lawsuit-over-exploding-ecigarette-battery

Aug

2015

Wyandotte, 

MI Use No Moderate Self or occupant

The pen was in victim’s 

hand when it exploded. 

“The thing just fired up 

out of my hands, hit the 

wall,” he said. His arm was 

scorched; he may have 

lasting nerve damage 

to his thumb and a part 

of his abdomen is black 

from burns, according to 

the report.

http://patch.com/michigan/

dearborn/man-injuredexploding-e-cigarettecongresswoman-wants-fdaregulate-0

Sep

2015 CA Pocket No Severe Self or occupant

Second degree burns to 

left leg. Two skin grafts.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

news/article-3327374/

Former-LA-Galaxy-starsuffers-hole-cheek-e-cigaretteexploded-face-industry-facesstring-lawsuits-victims-saysuffered-burns-lost-FINGERS.

html

Sep

2015

White House, 

TN Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device overheated and 

caught fire in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burn to upper thigh 

and stomach.

http://kval.com/news/

nation-world/white-house-teenburned-by-exploding-vapewarns-of-potential-dangers
34 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Oct

2015 Wichita, KS Use No Minor Self or occupant

Battery exploded when 

e-cig was taken off charger 

to use. Minor burns to 

hand. Parts of the e-cig 

flew in separate directions, 

parts embedded into 

sheet rock walls on 

opposite side of the room.

Original story accessed 

November 2016 from www.

ky3.com (Wichita, KS) has been 

removed.

Oct

2015 Omaha, NE Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded, burning 

his face, knocking out 

several teeth, and 

breaking the roof 

of mouth.

http://www.ketv.com/article/

vaporizer-explodes-in-mansmouth/8302383

Oct

2015 Cape Coral, FL Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in man’s 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns to thigh.

http://www.nbc-2.com/

story/30387843/cape-man-islatest-to-suffer-from-e-cigarettemalfunction#.VjORmflVhrM

https://www.youtube.

com/watch?v=bLcLw2stp8&feature=youtu.be

Oct

2015 Seattle, WA Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in 

mouth. Lost eight teeth, 

lacerations to lips and 

gums, burns to right eye.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/health/explodinge-cigarettes-send-vapers-toharborview-with-gruesomeinjuries/
Appendix 2 35

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Oct

2015

Bakersfield, 

CA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded near his 

face, badly burning his 

mouth, tongue, and left 

hand, which was holding 

the device. Doctors 

amputated his left 

index finger.

http://ktla.com/2015/11/19/

lawsuits-filed-after-exploding-ecigarettes-leave-3-injured/

http://www.mercurynews.

com/2015/11/20/los-angelesexploding-e-cigarettes-promptlawsuits-one-user-lost-half-afinger/

Oct

2015

North Naples, 

FL Use No Severe Self or occupant

Twenty-one year old 

man critically injured 

when e-cig exploded in 

his mouth during use. 

Reports include claims 

that part of the device 

went down his throat and 

exploded again.

http://www.foxnews.com/

health/2015/10/28/floridaman-placed-in-coma-after-ecigarette-explosion.html

http://www.winknews.

com/2015/10/26/e-cigaretteexplosion-leaves-man-inmedically-induced-coma/

Nov

2015 Columbus, NE Use No Moderate Self or occupant

First-degree burns to his 

eye, and first and seconddegree burns to his face. 

Nearly lost ear. Device 

exploded near head.

http://www.kearneyhub.

com/news/regional/

columbus-man-almost-losesan-ear-in-e-cigarette-explosion/

article_6496bd6e-8d6e-11e5-

aff1-3fabf4c602ba.html

Nov

2015

Bentonville, 

AK Use No Severe Self or occupant

User reported, “I put it to 

my mouth, and as soon 

as I pressed the button 

on the bottom, the device 

exploded.” User suffered 

burns to mouth, throat, 

and hand, shattered teeth, 

and severed lips.

http://www.arkansasmatters.

com/news/localnews/e-cigarette-explodes-inbentonville-mans-face
36 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Nov

2015 Aloha, OR Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Device exploded when 

charging. Ignited wicker 

shelving unit.

NFIRS 0035805

Nov

2015

Shreveport, 

LA Pocket Moderate None Self or occupant

He stated that he was 

looking for his keys when 

something sparked 

coming out of his pocket. 

The charger was flung 

into the right rear of the 

passenger compartment, 

causing clothing and other 

materials behind the seat 

to catch fire.

NFIRS 1536089

Nov

2015 CA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device burned and then 

flashed inside pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns on thumbs 

and left leg.

http://mynewsla.com/

uncategorized/2016/01/11/did-ecigarette-explode-in-his-pocketuser-sues-manufacturer-seller/

Nov

2015

Washington 

County, PA Storage Minor Minor Self or occupant

Mod-type device exploded 

while driving car. First 

degree burns to two 

occupants. Minor burns to 

car seat and floor carpet.

http://www.wpxi.com/news/

local/e-cig-battery-explodessets-washington-cou/26882472

Nov

2015 Seattle, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded near 

mouth. Lacerations to 

nose and upper lip; ripped 

out nose ring.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/health/explodinge-cigarettes-send-vapers-toharborview-with-gruesomeinjuries/
Appendix 2 37

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Nov

2015

Colorado 

Springs, CO Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded near 

29 year old user’s 

face. Reports included 

fractured neck vertebrae, 

facial fractures, fractured 

teeth and other injuries.

http://www.myfoxmemphis.

com/story/30580754/memphisnative-in-hospital-after-an-ecigarette-exploded

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

entry/e-cigarette-explosion_565

32c70e4b0879a5b0b91da?ncid=t

xtlnkusaolp00000592

Nov

2015 Hollywood, FL Charge Minor None Self or occupant

E-cig exploded on bed 

while being charged. 

Ignited mattress and 

bed clothes.

http://www.local10.com/news/

tina-kruzyck-says-e-cigaretteexploded-while-she-sleptcaught-bed-on-fire

Nov

2015

Bremerton, 

WA Charge Major None Fire department

Charging e-cig ignited 

hotel room contents. 

Room and contents fire.

http://www.kitsapdailynews.

com/news/e-cigarette-causeshotel-fire-over-holiday-weekend/

Nov

2015

Newport 

Beach, CA Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in hand. 

Third degree burns 

to hand.

http://abc7.com/news/newportbeach-man-suffers-burns-aftere-cigarette-explodes/1104400/

Dec

2015 Gulfport, FL Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns to leg.

http://saintpetersblog.com/

gulfport-man-claims-samsungvaping-battery-explodedcaught-fire/

Dec

2015

Oklahoma 

City, OK Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded while 

being refilled. Laceration 

to head; burns to carpet.

http://kfor.com/2015/12/08/

blood-just-pouring-down-e-cigexplodes-in-oklahoma-mans-face/

Dec

2015

Grand Rapids, 

MI Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

E-cigarette battery 

exploded in his pocket; 

second and third degree 

burns on his leg.

http://fox17online.

com/2015/12/08/id-ratherhave-lung-cancer-e-cigaretteexplodes-in-mans-pocket/
38 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Dec

2015 Pittsburg, PA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg.

https://www.ems1.com/

weird-news/articles/72121048-3-

men-suffer-serious-burns-frome-cigarette-battery-fires/

Dec

2015 Clovis, CA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

E-cigarette in his pocket 

exploded and caught fire. 

“He’s got pretty serious 

burns on his hand as he 

reached into his pocket to 

pull the cigarette out, and 

on his leg,” Stirrup said. “It 

burned straight through 

his pants.”

http://abc7news.com/news/

explosive-lawsuit-could-light-upe-cigarette-industry/1224224/

Dec

2015 Cashmere, WA Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

Ignited in hand while 

driving. Third degree 

burns forearm and elbow.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/health/explodinge-cigarettes-send-vapers-toharborview-with-gruesomeinjuries/

Dec

2015 Huntsville, AL Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Second and third degree 

burns to his legs and hands.

http://www.wsfa.com/

story/34066138/huntsville-mansues-after-e-cigarette-batteryexplodes
Appendix 2 39

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Dec

2015

Chesterfield, 

VA Charge Moderate None Self or occupant

Six plug charging unit for 

vapor smoking devices 

caught fire on the floor in 

the office/storage area. 

The unit had five of the six 

ports in the charging unit 

being used. The charging 

device was melted and 

charred with minor 

charring/burned area in 

the carpet approximately 

2 feet by 2 feet where 

the device was sitting. 

The manager/employees 

extinguished the fire prior 

to our arrival.

NFIRS 0036595

Dec

2015 Kelso, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded at mouth. 

Lost eight teeth and 

portion of lower palate. 

Burns to face, neck, chest 

and mouth.

http://tdn.com/news/local/

kelso-man-sues-over-exploding-ecigarette/article_91e46836-8146-

5667-93bd-bb317e1441ce.html

Dec

2015

Pismo Beach, 

CA Use No Moderate Self or occupant

The e-cig exploded, igniting 

his right hand, and sending 

hot metal shrapnel and 

debris toward his face and 

hands. Multiple lacerations, 

a flash burn to his right 

eye, and experienced 

pain in his lungs from 

inhaling fumes and debris 

from the e-cigarette’s 

exploded battery.

http://www.newtimesslo.com/

news/13377/pismo-man-suesafter-hes-injured-by-explodingecigarette/
40 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Dec

2015 Seattle, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in hand. 

Burns and lacerations to 

hand and arm.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/health/explodinge-cigarettes-send-vapers-toharborview-with-gruesomeinjuries/

Dec

2015 Pittsburg, PA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg.

https://www.ems1.com/

weird-news/articles/72121048-3-

men-suffer-serious-burns-frome-cigarette-battery-fires/

Dec

2015

Cowlitz 

County, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded at 

mouth. Lost teeth, burns 

to face, mouth.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/vapers-sue-ecigarette-makers-sellers-afterexplosions-burns/

Dec

2015 Ogden, UT Use Major Minor Fire department

Device exploded in hand; 

user dropped the device 

and ran to sink to cool 

burn. Device ignited room 

fire. Fire department 

extinguished.

http://www.standard.net/

fire/2015/12/25/christmashouse-fire-ogden-exploding-ecigarette

Jan

2016 Orange, CA Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pants 

pocket, causing second and 

third degree burns to leg.

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/

news/local/e-cigarette-explodelawsuit-battery-los-angeles.html

Jan

2016

Ladera Ranch, 

CA Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pants 

pocket. First and second 

degree burns to leg.

http://www.cbsnews.com/

news/e-cigarette-explodes-inteens-pocket-at-work/

Jan

2016 Jackson, IN Use No Moderate Self or occupant

E-cig exploded while 

driving. Burns to face and 

hands. Lost control and 

crashed truck.

http://www.wbiw.com/local/

archive/2016/01/e-cigaretteexplodes-causing-crash-on-i-65.

php
Appendix 2 41

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jan

2016

Round Rock, 

TX Use Moderate Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in hand. 

Severe burns on hand. NFIRS 0107009

Jan

2016 Dallas, TX Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device overheated and 

caught fire in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to thigh.

http://dfw.cbslocal.

com/2016/01/11/man-suffersthird-degree-burns-when-ecigarette-battery-bursts/

Jan

2016 Seattle, WA Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded and 

burned face and hand.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/health/explodinge-cigarettes-send-vapers-toharborview-with-gruesomeinjuries/

Jan

2016 Pittsburg, PA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg.

https://www.ems1.com/

weird-news/articles/72121048-3-

men-suffer-serious-burns-frome-cigarette-battery-fires/

Jan

2016 Maui, HI Storage Minor None Self or occupant

In-flight fire on commercial 

flight from Honolulu to 

Maui. Aircraft landed 

safely in Maui. Two bags 

damaged by an e-cigarette 

in a passenger’s 

checked luggage.

http://www.kitv.com/

story/30961500/hawaiianairlines-flight-makes-emergencylanding-after-e-cigarette-scare

Jan

2016

New Hanover 

County, NC Use No Severe Self or occupant

Electronic cigarette 

exploded in his face. He 

had over 50 stitches on 

his face, second and third 

degree burns on his chest, 

and lost an eye.

http://www.wect.com/

story/31386547/e-cigaretteexplodes-man-loses-eye
42 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jan

2016 Aurora, CO Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns on leg 

and hands.

http://www.denverpost.

com/2016/01/29/coloradovapers-burned-by-exploding-ecigarettes/

Jan

2016 Englewood, FL Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

E-cigarette exploded in 

hand as victim was about 

to take a puff. Several 

teeth knocked out, jaw 

wired, burns on chest and 

legs.

http://www.winknews.

com/2016/01/21/man-losesteeth-jaw-wired-together-aftere-cig-explodes/

Jan

2016 Windsor, CA Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in mouth. 

Lost teeth. Burns and 

lacerations to face. Minor 

burns to floor coverings.

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/

news/5144837-181/windsorteen-badly-hurt-when

Jan

2016 Concord, NH Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in 

pocket, tearing his pants 

and undergarments and 

burning his flesh.

http://www.unionleader.

com/Man-whose-e-cigaretteexploded-sues-manufacturerand-store

Jan

2016 Spokane, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded at mouth. 

Lost teeth, burns to face, 

neck, mouth and chest.

http://www.spokesman.com/

stories/2016/oct/13/e-cigexplosions-prompt-lawsuits/

Jan

2016

Moultonborough, NH Pocket No Moderate Self or 

occupant

E-cigarette exploded in 

pants pocket causing 

second- and third-degree 

burns.

http://www.unionleader.

com/Man-whose-e-cigaretteexploded-sues-manufacturerand-store

Jan

2016 Tilton, NH Pocket Minor Severe Self or occupant

Second and third degree 

burns on legs and hand 

after a vaporizer battery 

exploded in his pocket.

http://www.wmur.com/article/

man-burned-when-vaporizerbattery-explodes/5208058
Appendix 2 43

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jan

2016 Spokane, WA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded at mouth. 

Lost teeth, burns to face, 

neck, chest and mouth.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/vapers-sue-ecigarette-makers-sellers-afterexplosions-burns/

Feb

2016

Cecil County, 

MD Use No None Self or occupant

User reported the battery 

was ejected from the e-cig 

and struck him in the cheek.

http://www.abc2news.com/news/

in-focus/cecil-county-man-says-ecigarette-exploded-in-his-face

Feb

2016 Missoula, MT Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

“E-cigarette recently 

exploded while he was 

using it, causing massive 

damage to his mouth. Lost 

four front teeth, top front 

teeth, and his lower front 

teeth are all going to need 

root canals, because there 

was just so much damage. 

Not only to the teeth, but it 

also blew out large chunks 

of jaw bone,” said his 

dentist. “It blew a tooth out, 

an upper tooth out, and all 

the way through the mouth, 

and it took 22 stitches. It 

was like a bullet hole in the 

young man’s face.”

http://www.ktvh.com/2016/02/

missoula-teenager-loses-teethto-exploding-e-cigarette

Feb

2016 Splendora, TX Pocket Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in 

pocket while driving. 

Burns to leg. Car fire.

http://www.fox4news.com/

news/texas/84728658-story
44 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Feb

2016 UT Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Ignited in pocket; second 

and third degree burns to 

leg and hand.

http://fox13now.

com/2016/02/19/utah-manburned-by-exploding-batteryurges-other-e-cigarette-usersto-be-cautious/

Feb

2016

Owensboro, 

KY Pocket Minor Minor Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. Second degree 

burns on leg.

http://www.valleynewslive.

com/home/headlines/VIDEOe-cigarette-explodes-in-manspants-369968501.html

Feb

2016

Rising Sun, 

MD Use No Minor Self or occupant

Device ignited while 

driving. Battery hit driver 

in face.

http://www.abc2news.com/news/

in-focus/cecil-county-man-says-ecigarette-exploded-in-his-face

Feb

2016 Surprise, AZ Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Batteries in pocket 

exploded while driving. 

Second and third degree 

burns on leg and hand.

http://fox13now.

com/2016/02/19/utah-manburned-by-exploding-batteryurges-other-e-cigarette-usersto-be-cautious/

Feb

2016 Southern UT Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Ignited in pocket; second 

and third degree burns 

in leg.

http://fox13now.com/2016/02/17/

utah-man-says-he-sufferedthird-degree-burns-after-ecigarette-exploded-in-his-pocket/

Feb

2016 Lyndhurst, OH Pocket No None Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket 

of lab coat.

http://www.newsnet5.com/

news/local-news/clevelandmetro/e-cigarette-blows-up-atlyndhurst-plastic-surgery-office
Appendix 2 45

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Feb

2016 Naples, FL Use Major Moderate Self or occupant

First and second degree 

burns on her face, neck 

and hands when she says 

her e-cigarette exploded 

in her face. Damage to 

teeth and gums. Fire 

ignited contents of car.

http://www.winknews.

com/2016/02/26/womanseverely-burned-in-e-cigaretteexplosion/

Feb

2016 Phoenix, AZ Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in his 

pocket while driving. 

Second and third degree 

burns to legs and hands.

http://www.fox10phoenix.com/

news/arizona-news/98062903-

story

Feb

2016 Rochester, NH Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded while 

charging. Not using the 

proper charger.

http://www.wmur.com/article/

electronic-cigarette-explodeswhile-charging-in-rochesterapartment/5208926

Feb

2016

Scappoose, 

OR Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in 

pocket. Burned legs.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/vapers-sue-ecigarette-makers-sellers-afterexplosions-burns/

Feb

2016

Castle Rock, 

CO Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns on leg 

and hands.

http://kdvr.com/2016/02/28/

castle-rock-teen-suffers-thirddegree-burns-after-vaporizerbattery-explodes-in-his-pocket/

Mar

2016 Aurora, CO Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in face. 

Second and third degree 

burns to chest, neck, 

face, eyes.

http://denver.cbslocal.

com/2016/03/03/vape-penexplosion-victim-sufferedsevere-burns/

Mar

2016 Fulton, MD Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns on leg 

and hands.

http://www.abc2news.com/

news/in-focus/howard-countyman-suffers-burns-after-ecigarette-explodes-in-his-pocket
46 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Mar

2016

New Orleans, 

LA Use Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded and 

burned face and hand. 

Rocketed around room, 

burning wall and floor at 

impact sites.

http://www.wwltv.com/news/

local-man-says-e-cigarettecharger-exploded-on-himcaught-on-fire/66623741

Mar

2016

Arroyo 

Grande, CA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded near 

face. Burns to face.

http://www.sanluisobispo.com/

news/local/article88047182.html

Mar

2016 Atlanta, GA Storage Minor None Self or occupant

Device ignited inside a 

carry-on bag on a Delta 

flight headed to St. Louis. 

Aircraft was still on 

the ground.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/

delta-flight-delayed-cigaretteignites-passengers-carry/

story?id=37710018

Mar

2016

Costa Mesa, 

CA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Upper leg and groin — 

first and second degree 

burns when spare battery 

exploded in pants pocket.

http://www.ocregister.com/

articles/batteries-709292-

coates-fire.html

Mar

2016

Kalamazoo, 

MI Use No Moderate Self or occupant

E-cig exploded in hand. 

Third degree burns on 

hand.

http://wwmt.com/news/local/

kalamazoo-man-says-e-cigexploded-in-his-hand-causingburns

Mar

2016 Chico, CA Not reported Moderate None Self or occupant

Vape was cited as cause 

of accidental fire in 

bathroom of college dorm.

http://theorion.com/54656/

news/students-evacuateuniversity-village/

Mar

2016 Keene, NH Storage Minor None Self or occupant

Device exploded on 

restaurant table and 

rocketed about hitting two 

customers and causing 

minor burns to clothing 

and door.

http://www.sentinelsource.

com/news/local/e-cigaretteexplodes-in-keene-restaurant/

article_fa81c331-fba6-5e7d9988-4042c7f9bf18.html
Appendix 2 47

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Apr

2016 NC Charge Moderate None Fire department

E-cig on charge exploded, 

flew across room, and 

ignited carpet and 

night stand.

NFIRS 0758

Apr

2016 Brooklyn, NY Use No Severe Self or occupant

A 14-year-old was blinded 

in one eye and burned 

on the face when a vape 

shop clerk in a Brooklyn 

mall foolishly plugged an 

e-cigarette into the wrong 

battery and it exploded.

http://www.nydailynews.com/

new-york/boy-14-partiallyblinded-exploding-e-cigarettebattery-article-1.2601552

Apr

2016 Phoenix, AZ Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. Second and third 

degree burns on leg 

and hands.

http://www.fox10phoenix.com/

news/arizona-news/118366996-

story

Apr

2016 Queens, NY Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg.

http://www.nydailynews.com/

new-york/e-cigarette-violentlyexplodes-pocket-queenswoman-article-1.2607505

Apr

2016 Spokane, WA Pocket No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg.

http://www.seattletimes.com/

seattle-news/vapers-sue-ecigarette-makers-sellers-afterexplosions-burns/

Apr

2016 Idaho Falls, ID Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg and hand.

http://www.localnews8.com/

news/kifi-top-story/local-maninjured-from-e-cigarette_

20160825070832821/58580069

Apr

2016 Brooklyn, NY Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in hands. 

Burns to hands, face and 

eyes.

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/

new-york-teen-badly-injured-byexploding-e-cigarette/
48 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Apr

2016

Oklahoma 

City, OK Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket (coins 

reported in pocket). 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg.

http://ksn.com/2016/04/20/

exploding-e-cigarette-injures-teen/

Apr

2016

Paso Robles, 

CA Use No Severe Self or occupant

Victim lost many of his 

bottom teeth and blew 

a small hole through 

his tongue.

https://pasoroblesdailynews.

com/local-teen-hospitalizedafter-e-cig-reportedly-explodesduring-use/53099/

Apr

2016 Oswego, IL Storage Major None Fire department

Device exploded in SUV 

center console while 

unattended. SUV and 

adjacent car destroyed 

in fire.

http://wgntv.com/2016/04/19/ecigarette-may-be-to-blame-forcar-fire-in-suburban-wal-martparking-lot/

Apr

2016

Colorado 

Springs, CO Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket (keys 

and coins reported in 

pocket). Second and third 

degree burns to leg.

http://www.koaa.com/

story/31801206/burned-manshares-safety-warning-afterbattery-explosion-caught-oncamera

Apr

2016

Chattahoochee 

Hills, GA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery ignited 

inside pants pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg and hands.

http://www.fox5atlanta.com/

news/132595190-story

Apr

2016

Chesterfield, 

VA Storage Minor Minor Self or occupant

Device exploded and 

rocketed across room. 

Second and third degree 

burns to hand. Burns to 

mattress and carpet.

http://www.nbc12.com/

story/31850463/lithium-ionbattery-explosions-on-the-rise
Appendix 2 49

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

May

2016 St. Joseph, KS Pocket Minor Minor Self or occupant

Device ignited in pants 

pocket. First and second 

degree burns on leg 

and hands.

http://www.newspressnow.

com/news/local_news/

article_f60d5ddc-5f4e-5253-

8eb0-84504e546ac2.html

May

2016 Hesperia, CA Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Device blew up causing 

“moderate facial burns.”

http://www.vvng.com/

man-airlifted-after-vapingproduct-explodes-in-face/

May

2016 Albertville, AL Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Student was carrying 

e-cig in his pants pocket 

when the battery started 

heating up and burning 

him. This burning got so 

bad the student took it 

from his pocket and put 

in on a nearby desk. The 

e-cigarette battery then 

reportedly exploded, 

hit the wall and struck 

another student, burning 

him on the face and neck.

http://www.al.com/news/index.

ssf/2016/05/albertville_

high_school_studen.html

May

2016 Ogden, NY Use Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded when 

activated near mouth. 

Injuries to throat, face 

and hand.

http://www.wfaa.com/

news/nation-now/ny-teenhospitalized-after-his-ecigaretteexplodes/170912533

May

2016

Albuquerque, 

NM Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Mod and two batteries 

in pocked ignited while 

driving. Second and third 

degree burns to left leg, 

thighs and buttocks.

Original story accessed 

November 2016 on www.kob.

com (KOB4, Albuquerque, NM) 

has been removed or moved.
50 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

May

2016 Maricopa, AZ Use Moderate Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in user’s 

hands. Second and third 

degree burn injuries to 

hands, side and chest.

http://www.abc15.com/news/

region-central-southern-az/

maricopa/valley-teenagerinjured-after-e-cig-explodesfaces-surgery-tomorrow-torepair-burns

May

2016

Longboat Key, 

FL Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Spare battery for e-cig 

exploded in pocket 

causing second degree 

burns to thigh.

http://www.fox13news.com/news/

local-news/139722872-story

May

2016 Irvine, CA Storage Moderate Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded after 

being placed on desk. 

Device and debris shot 

toward his face. Victim lost 

left eye. Burn injuries to 

hand and chest. Started 

a fire on the computer on 

the desk.

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/

news/local/Orange-CountyMan-Loses-Eye-in-E-CigExplosion-378894001.html

May

2016

Wentzville, 

MO Pocket Minor Severe Self or occupant

Spare battery for e-cig 

exploded in pocket 

causing second and third 

degree burns to thigh.

http://fox2now.com/2016/05/12/

e-cig-users-report-severe-burnsafter-devices-explode/

May

2016 Albany, NY Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

The e-cig exploded, went 

into his mouth and burned 

everything. Hands burned, 

some teeth knocked out, 

burned and lacerated 

tongue.

http://ktla.com/2016/05/19/

vaporizer-explodes-in-ny-mansface-rips-hole-in-his-tongue/

May

2016 Manomet, MA Use No Moderate Self or occupant

Burns to hands and 

fingers. No other 

information.

http://plymouth.wickedlocal.

com/article/20160524/

NEWS/160528120
Appendix 2 51

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jun

2016 Tulsa, OK Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

E-cig exploded in pocket. 

Third degree burns on thigh.

http://www.kjrh.com/news/

local-news/doctors-at-hillcrestmedical-center-have-treatedfour-patients-for-third-degreeburns-due-to-e-cigs

Jun

2016 Tustin, CA Use Minor Severe Self or occupant

E-cig exploded near face. 

Burns and cuts to face.

http://laist.com/2016/06/04/

man_burned_after_e-cig_

blows_up_in.php

Jun

2016 Kirkland, WA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pants 

pocket causing second 

degree burns to back of leg.

http://www.kiro7.com/news/

local/kirkland-mans-vape-penbattery-explodes/373773562

Jun

2016 Fairfield, OH Use No Moderate Self or occupant

E-cig exploded in hand. 

Lacerations and burns to 

hand. Ten stitches.

http://www.fox19.com/

story/32179819/fairfield-mansays-e-cigarette-exploded-inhis-hand

Jun

2016 Muskogee, OK Use No Moderate Self or occupant

E-cig exploded near 

mouth. Disfigurement, 

temporary vision damage. 

This story is a report on a 

lawsuit; details and date 

not specified.

http://www.muskogeephoenix.

com/news/man-sues-aftere-cigarette-allegedly-explodes-inhis-mouth/article_3751befe-320c5757-96b3-0d3c0bb13de6.html

Jun

2016 Mobile, AL Not reported Unknown Severe Unknown

Story quotes medical center 

stating there have been 

seven incidents of battery 

burns in last six months.

http://wkrg.com/2016/06/08/ecigarette-batteries-exploding/

Jun

2016

Lava Hot 

Springs, ID

Not 

reported Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded causing 

lacerations to leg and foot, 

and burns to carpet.

http://idahostatejournal.

com/news/local-teeninjured-when-vape-explodes/

article_56bd34ac-543b-5648-

9002-82a6c247c8f5.html
52 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jun

2016 Chicago, IL Storage Minor None Self or occupant

Occupant noticed e-cig 

smoking on bed, picked 

it up and then dropped 

it on the floor because it 

was too hot. It then blew 

up and started a small fire 

that she extinguished with 

a bottle of water.

NFIRS 0429762

Jun

2016

Victor Valley, 

CA Storage Moderate None Fire department

Device exploded in parked 

car, setting interior on fire.

http://www.vvng.com/explodingvape-blamed-for-victorville-carfire/

Jun

2016 Carrollton, TX Use Large Minor Fire department

Occupant was using an 

e-cigarette and it started 

to spark and explode in his 

hand. The occupant threw 

the e-cigarette away to 

avoid getting more injured. 

The occupant stated that 

he went the bathroom 

to put cold water on his 

hand. When he returned 

to the room, a large part of 

the room was on fire. The 

e-cigarette was believed to 

have landed on a blanket 

and first ignited the 

blanket. Extinguishment 

by fire service personnel.

NFIRS 0005544

Jun

2016 Arlington, TX Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg and hands.

http://dfw.cbslocal.

com/2016/09/13/faulty-lithiumion-batteries-raise-concerns-forelectronics-users/
Appendix 2 53

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Jul

2016

Chelmsford, 

MA Charge Minor Minor Self or occupant

Battery exploded while 

being charged.

http://www.lowellsun.com/

news/ci_30088610/man-burnedwhen-battery-e-cigaretteexplodes

Jul

2016 Bay City, MI Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg.

http://www.mlive.com/news/

bay-city/index.ssf/2016/07/man_

suffers_burn_when_vaporize.

html

Jul

2016 Atlanta, GA Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg and hand.

http://www.ajc.com/news/local/

cigarette-battery-explodeslike-hand-grenade-pocket/

LvP3W9w5xYyTZh5SPyF0TO/

Jul

2016 Bear, DE Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg.

http://6abc.com/news/

del-man-suing-over-e-cigarettefire-/1435239/

Aug

2016 Idaho Falls, ID Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg.

http://www.localnews8.com/

news/kifi-top-story/local-maninjured-from-e-cigarette_

20160825070832821/58580069

Sep

2016 Monmouth, NJ Storage Minor None Self or occupant Device exploded in purse.

http://www.nj.com/monmouth/

index.ssf/2016/09/watch_vape_

battery_explodes_in_womans_

purse_at_fre.html

Sep

2016

Birmingham, 

AL Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to leg and hands.

http://wiat.com/2016/09/13/

uab-patients-say-they-wereinjured-by-e-cigarrettes/
54 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Sep

2016

Birmingham, 

AL Use No Severe Self or occupant

Fractured jaw and broken 

tooth.

http://wiat.com/2016/09/13/

uab-patients-say-they-wereinjured-by-e-cigarrettes/

Sep

2016

Callaway 

County, MO Storage Moderate None Self or occupant

E-cig exploded in car. 

Dash and other internal 

components burned.

http://www.abc17news.

com/news/e-cigarettereportedly-explodes-starts-carfire/81128840

Sep

2016 Haralson, GA Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in 

pocket, started two other 

batteries. Second and 

third degree burns to leg 

and hands.

http://www.ajc.com/news/local/

cigarette-battery-explodeslike-hand-grenade-pocket/

LvP3W9w5xYyTZh5SPyF0TO/

Sep

2016 Avondale, AZ Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Burns to leg and groin.

http://www.azfamily.com/

story/33124980/e-cigaretteexplodes-in-valley-mans-pocket

Sep

2016

Staten Island, 

NY Storage Minor Minor Self or occupant

Device exploded in 

purse. Hand burns while 

attempting to put the 

fire out.

http://www.silive.com/news/

index.ssf/2016/09/explosion_at_

castleton_corners.html

Oct

2016 Orlando, FL Not reported Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded and flew 

to passerby, who suffered 

burns to face, arm and leg.

http://www.orlandosentinel.

com/news/breaking-news/

os-teen-injured-universalcigarette-20161001-story.html

Oct

2016 Phoenix, AZ Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Battery exploded in 

pocket. Burned legs, hair. 

Second degree burns.

http://www.fox10phoenix.com/

news/arizona-news/209467116-

story

Oct

2016 Seattle, WA Storage Moderate None Fire department

Device in checked baggage 

ignited bag inside airport 

handling facility before 

being placed on the plane.

http://komonews.com/news/

local/bag-catches-fire-at-sea-tacairport-due-to-vape-pen-charger
Appendix 2 55

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Oct

2016 Ketchikan, AK Storage No None Self or occupant

E-cig in back pack ignited 

during deplaning of 

passengers on an Alaska 

Airlines flight from Seattle 

to Anchorage. Minor 

damage to the backpack 

and contents; 12-inch 

square of carpet on 

the floor of the aircraft 

was replaced.

http://www.kcaw.org/2016/10/31/

alaska-air-flight-grounded-e-cigbatteries-ingnite/

Nov

2016 Stratford, CT Use No Severe Self or occupant

Device exploded at mouth. 

Lost teeth, burns to face, 

neck, chest and mouth.

http://connecticut.news12.

com/story/34836094/fire-deptissues-warning-after-e-cigexplodes-in-mans-mouth

Nov

2016 New York, NY Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns on leg and hand.

http://www.aol.com/article/

news/2016/11/25/horrific-videoshows-e-cigarette-burst-intoflames-in-mans-pock/21614390/

Dec

2016 Little Rock, AR Storage No None Self or occupant

Device ignited inside a 

carry-on bag on American 

flight. Aircraft diverted 

to Little Rock. Flight crew 

extinguished with water 

and extinguisher.

http://www.star-telegram.com/

news/local/community/fortworth/article121150273.html

Dec

2016 Petoskey, MI Charge Minor None Self or occupant

Device ignited while 

charging in bedroom. 

No other information 

reported. Fire department 

responded, but out on 

arrival.

http://www.9and10news.com/

story/34065155/overheating-ecigarette-prompts-firefightersto-respond-to-emmet-co-condo
56 Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009 - 2016

E-cigarette incidents reviewed

Date

Location

Status

Fire beyond 

e-cig?

Injuries?

Extinguished

Notes

Source URL

Dec

2016 Fresno, CA Pocket No Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns on leg and hand.

http://www.aol.com/article/

news/2016/12/22/e-cigaretteexplosion-on-bus-leavesman-with-third-degreeburns/21633284/

Dec

2016 Putnam, NY Pocket Minor Moderate Self or occupant

Device exploded in pocket. 

Second and third degree 

burns to right thigh.

http://newyork.cbslocal.

com/2016/12/22/latest-ecigarette-explosion/

Dec

2016 Lyndhurst, NJ Charge Minor None Fire department

Device exploded while 

being charged with 

improper charger.

http://www.northjersey.

com/story/news/bergen/

lyndhurst/2017/01/18/ecigarette-explosionsprompt-reminder-lyndhurstofficials/96689642/