Information for parents and carers

Do you know what they’re vaping?

We are urging you to find out more and talk about the hidden impacts of vapes with your children.

Alarmingly, we are seeing an increase in the number of young people trying vaping.

Young people may think they are simply inhaling flavoured water, this is far from the truth. Vapes can have the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray.

Vapes are colourful, with flavours that make them appealing.

You wouldn’t put cleaning products in your food, so why would you want to put it into your lungs?

What you can do as a parent or carer

There are ways you can help protect your children from vaping:

Whether you suspect your child is vaping or not, take the time to talk to them about it and help them understand all of the risks. It is never too late to have the conversation.
Try to start the conversation with your child in a relaxed easy-going way, perhaps taking the cue from around you, such as a note from school, a news story about on it, or seeing people vaping on the street.
If your child is vaping, encourage them to stop, let them know that help is available and you are there for them.
Learn about the different types of vapes available and the risks associated with using these products.
Set a good example by being tobacco or vape free.
Report those who are selling vapes to minors or selling vapes containing nicotine by completing the online reporting form or calling the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412.

Support to help your child quit vaping

Book an appointment with their general practitioner or other health service for help to quit vaping.

Quitlinecounsellors are available to answer any questions about vapes on 13 7848 (13 QUIT). Quitline is a telephone-based service, offering information and advice. Quitline counsellors provide tips and strategies, and help to plan your child's quit attempts, based on their own needs and preferences. They can also help you think of ways to approach a conversation with your child or loved one about vaping.

The Aboriginal Quitlineis also available on 13 7848. Run by Aboriginal counsellors, the Aboriginal Quitline is a telephone-based confidential advice and support service.

If you require assistance in a language other than English, Quitline has counsellors who speak Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin and Vietnamese, you can ask to speak to one of these counsellors. For people who prefer to speak in a different language, Quitline uses the Telephone Interpreter Service(TIS).

The Cancer Institute NSW iCanQuitprovides information on quitting methods, links to support groups and top tips to help your child quit.