A woman in England recently experienced a horrifying incident when her vape battery exploded in her pocket, causing severe burns to her leg. Kerri Absolom from Dorset, England shared her story to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping, hoping to prevent similar accidents from happening to others. The incident occurred in November 2022 as Absolom was preparing to leave for work, where she worked as a retail manager. She described the ordeal as “blood-curdling,” as she witnessed her leg being “burnt to a crisp” due to the fire caused by the vape battery.
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Absolom recounted the terrifying moment when she noticed her leg on fire and attempted to put out the flames with her hands. The vape battery produced sparks and eventually fell through her pant leg onto a nearby dog bed, causing further damage. Her husband, Christopher, helped her remove her trousers as the battery melted the bed and carpet. The intense pain led her to seek immediate medical attention, with firefighters eventually confirming that the battery caught fire due to contact with her keys, acting as a conductor.
Following the incident, Absolom was admitted to the burn unit for treatment, where she underwent skin grafts, laser treatments, and endured excruciating pain. The physical recovery process lasted for three years, but the emotional toll was equally challenging. Absolom struggled with PTSD, experiencing fear and anxiety triggered by various everyday situations. She eventually returned to work after a year but continues to be self-conscious about her leg, opting not to wear clothing that exposes the scars.
As a result of her traumatic experience, Absolom decided to give up vaping and took proactive steps to warn others about the potential risks associated with vape batteries. She contacted her local vape shop and shared photos of the damage caused by the incident, urging others to exercise caution when using electronic devices. She highlighted the importance of storing loose batteries safely, avoiding overnight charging, and using appropriate charging devices to prevent similar accidents.
Absolom’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the hazards of vaping and the importance of understanding the potential dangers associated with electronic devices. Through her bravery in sharing her experience, she hopes to educate others and prevent similar incidents from occurring. As she continues on her journey of recovery and raising awareness, Absolom remains grateful to have left behind what she now considers a dangerous habit, prioritizing her safety and well-being above all else.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends safety measures for vape users, such as storing batteries in cases, using designated chargers, and avoiding overnight charging. Absolom’s harrowing experience underscores the importance of following these guidelines to mitigate the risks of battery explosions and fires. By sharing her story, she emphasises the significance of prioritising safety when using electronic devices and being vigilant about potential hazards to prevent accidents and injuries.