The Navy will no longer allow sailors or anyone else on its vessels to use electronic cigarettes and vaping devices after several of them exploded and caused injuries to sailors.
According to Navy Times, the ban will take effect May 14, which is 30 days after the new policy was announced this week.
The policy "suspends the use, possession, storage, and charging of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems aboard ships, submarines, aircraft, boats, craft, and heavy equipment," the Navy said in a press release.
"The prohibition applies to sailors, marines, military sealift command civilians, and any personnel working on or visiting those units."
The Navy's Safety Center said there have been 31 incidents in which exploding e-cigarettes and/or vaping devices have caused burns and facial injuries to sailors. On at least two occasions, personnel onboard had to put out fires related to the explosions.
Navy vessels must be free of all devices named in the ban by May 14, although those on deployment can ask for more time to comply until they reach a port.
It was reported last month that lawmakers on Capitol Hill want the military to help its troops and veterans quit smoking.
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