In 2024, the Metropolitan Police recorded a 13% increase in cases where refillable vapes were laced with harmful substances such as THC and spice. With the recent ban on disposable vapes now in effect, there’s growing concern that the risks could escalate further in 2025.
The move away from single-use devices has pushed festival-goers toward refillable e-cigarettes, which are far easier to tamper with. Experts warn that vapes can be modified quickly and discreetly, putting users at risk of inhaling unknown — and potentially dangerous — substances. These include synthetic cannabinoids and psychoactive chemicals that can trigger symptoms ranging from anxiety and nausea to respiratory distress and kidney damage.
Festival-goers, particularly younger attendees, are being encouraged to take precautions. Safety campaigners from HAYPP, a leading vaping platform, have issued guidance to help reduce risk and raise awareness:
First and foremost, sharing vapes should be avoided altogether. While users may trust what’s in their own device, there’s no way of knowing what has been added to someone else’s — especially when refillable models allow for manual refills using any liquid. According to police, more than 100 types of substances have been identified in vape spiking incidents across the UK.
HAYPP also recommends inspecting your device carefully. Whether it’s been with you all day or left unattended, festival-goers should check for signs of tampering. This includes leaks, loose or replaced pods, or any unusual taste or appearance. In cases of suspected spiking, attendees are urged to seek immediate medical help. Symptoms such as coughing, dizziness, fatigue, or shortness of breath could signal a deeper problem, and many festivals now offer on-site first aid stations.
According to a spokesperson from HAYPP, the goal is not to instil fear, but to foster a more informed and vigilant vaping community.
“It’s crucial to be proactive about ensuring the safety of your vaping equipment,” the spokesperson said. “People need to know how to identify if a vape has been tampered with and what to do if they believe they’ve been spiked.”
In addition to drug-related risks, the warm weather poses another layer of concern. With temperatures reaching over 30 degrees in parts of the UK, dehydration caused by nicotine use is a growing issue. Nicotine acts as a stimulant and can increase the risk of dehydration when combined with heat and physical exertion. Festival organisers and health experts advise regular water intake, shaded breaks, and moderation when vaping throughout the day.
Battery safety is also under scrutiny. Attendees are urged to use manufacturer-approved chargers and store batteries in proper cases to avoid dangerous contact with metal objects. Leaving devices or batteries in direct sunlight can lead to overheating, fire risk or even explosions.
Another concern is vape hygiene. Studies show uncleaned devices can harbour millions of bacteria within just one week. Mouthpieces should be regularly wiped down with alcohol or warm water, and stored away from shared surfaces to minimise contamination.
Finally, organisers are calling for greater awareness around proper vape disposal. With the ban on disposables, refillable models now dominate the market — but they still need to be recycled carefully. Most festivals offer bins designated for electricals and batteries. Users should separate removable parts where possible and avoid tossing devices into general waste, both for safety and environmental reasons.
Festival organisers and public health teams hope these messages will help attendees stay safe while still enjoying their events. And with more young people turning to vaping than ever before, proactive measures could make a significant impact as the summer unfolds.
