Protecting Children from Vape Pen Injuries at Daycare

At The Button Law Firm, we’re committed to advocating for the safety of children in daycare facilities. According to Texas minimum standards, caregivers must be at least 18 years old to work at a daycare. However, with the rise of young adults using vapes and e-cigarettes over the past decade, there’s been an alarming trend. The CDC reports that over 11% of adults aged 18 to 24 use these devices, and unfortunately, this has led to an increase in incidents where children are exposed to vape pens while at daycare.

How Children Are Exposed to Vape Pens at Daycare

Children often access vape pens at daycare due to negligence or a lack of proper safety measures. For instance:

• A caregiver might leave a vape pen on a low table or countertop.
• A vape pen could be left in a bag within a child’s reach.
• It could even be dropped accidentally and overlooked.

Vape pens are small, often colorful, and easily mistaken for toys. Combined with children’s natural curiosity and tendency to explore with their hands and mouths, this creates a dangerous situation.

Potential Injuries from Vape Pen Exposure

When children come into contact with vape pens, the consequences can be severe. Here are the primary risks:

1. Nicotine Poisoning
   Vape pens contain concentrated nicotine, which is extremely harmful to children if ingested. Even small amounts can cause:

   • Nausea
   • Vomiting
   • Increased heart rate
   • Seizures or respiratory failure in severe cases

2. Toxic Chemical Exposure
   Vape pens contain harmful substances, such as heavy metals and carcinogens. If a child handles a vape pen, these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, potentially leading to poisoning or respiratory problems.

3. Physical Injuries
   Vape pens are battery-operated devices. If a child chews on one, there’s a risk of battery leakage or even explosion, which can cause burns or other serious injuries.

Preventing Vape Pen Injuries at Daycare

Daycare facilities must implement strict policies for storing personal items, including vape pens. Caregivers should never leave such items where children can access them. Parents are encouraged to ask daycare providers about their policies and ensure their child’s environment is safe and secure.

What to Do if Your Child Comes into Contact with a Vape Pen

If you suspect your child has been exposed to a vape pen, it’s critical to act quickly:

• Look for signs of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, or lethargy.
• Seek immediate medical attention and inform the doctor of the potential for nicotine poisoning.

How The Button Law Firm Can Help

At The Button Law Firm, we understand how devastating it can be when a child is injured at daycare. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your child’s safety. If your child has been injured due to exposure to a vape pen at daycare, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Additionally, we’ve created a free, five-step guide on what to do after a daycare injury. It’s available below and can provide helpful information even if you’re not ready to speak with us just yet.

Your child’s safety is our priority. At The Button Law Firm, we’re here to keep you and your family moving forward.