Being smart about your vape starts with knowing the facts and understanding how to keep yourself and others safe. You should always: Unplug your vape once it's fully charged Recycle E cigarettes: How they work, risks, and research Vaping and Electronic Cigarette Toxicity Overview and Recommendations (Project VECTOR) Intrepid Lab Vaping has become common, but it's important to know what you're inhaling. Many e cigarettes contain nicotine, heavy metals like nickel and lead, and chemicals that can harm your lungs and overall health.