PARENTS in Malvern are being urged to educate their children on the dangers of vaping after a device was seized by police from an 11-year-old child.
PCSO Kev Tudge was on bike patrol last night in a local park, engaging with young people when he noticed the youngster vaping.
The legal vaping age in the UK is 18, and these regulations are in place to prevent youth access to nicotine products.
Youth vaping poses significant health risks, including nicotine addiction, respiratory problems, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, can harm brain development and increase the risk of smoking traditional cigarettes.
Plea to parents
PCSO Tudge said: “Whilst police can play a part along with local schools, parents can play a crucial role in preventing underage vaping.
“It is essential for parents to educate their children about the risks associated with vaping, including potential harm to their health and the legal age limit for vaping in the UK.”
He added the parents of the 11-year-old were informed about the incident and were fully supportive of what the police are trying to do.
And he warned shopkeepers that selling vapes to someone under 18 is illegal in the UK. The consequences for retailers caught doing so can be severe. Retailers face fines, potentially up to £2,500, and can be prosecuted if they continue to violate the law.
Additionally, new powers allow enforcement officers to issue on-the-spot fines of £100 in England and Wales.
Anyone who knows of a shop selling vapes to under 18s can report them to police by calling 101.
