A recent survey has revealed that a staggering 71% of smokers and vapers have lit up in areas where it’s strictly prohibited.
The study, which involved 1,000 adults, discovered that popular spots for rule-breaking include train stations, playgrounds, parks, and even at the gym.
Vapers were found to be more likely to break the rules than their smoking counterparts, with 37% of vapers compared to 31% of cigarette smokers confessing to lighting up in forbidden areas.
According to the survey, of those who smoke or vape in restricted spaces, 24% do it a few times a week, if not every day and while 57% admit to feelings of guilt, they also said that they simply ‘couldn’t help themselves’.
The study was conducted by nicotine pouch retailer Two Wombats. A company spokesperson said that while people still struggle to break old habits, it’s not just about rules— »it’s about respecting the health and comfort of others.
« Lighting up where you shouldn’t put more than just your wallet at risk through fines; it impacts everyone around you. »
So what’s driving this behaviour? It appears that 70% will light up if they can’t locate a designated zone. Furthermore, 58% claim they decided to smoke or vape in a restricted area after witnessing someone else do it first.
Three quarters of those surveyed expressed confidence in not getting ‘caught’. Moreover, while 32% felt anxious when doing it, 23% experienced ‘a sense of thrill’.
A significant 72% believe it’s ‘easier’ to discreetly smoke as a vaper. But despite this, 18% of those overall have been fined after being spotted smoking in a prohbitied area.
The study also revealed the UK regions most likely to smoke where the shouldn’t. According to the survey, Yorkshire smokers were the biggest rule-breakers with 33% confessing to lighting up in restricted areas several times a year, compared to just 18% in the North West.
Workplace smoking was notably higher in Wales, where 34% admitted to breaking the rules. However, in Northern Ireland, a whopping 70% of users feel guilty about smoking where they shouldn’t, while Yorkshire showed the least remorse at just 39%.
Across most regions, pubs, hotel rooms and beaches were the top spots where individuals were most likely to smoke where they shouldn’t.
A spokesperson for Two Wombats commented: « We’re living in a time where there are better, smarter options. The fact that people are still risking fines and social disapproval shows how strong nicotine cravings can be. »
“Other options, such as nicotine pouches, can offer a discreet, smoke free, legal and a hassle-free way to manage the cravings without the consequences.”
