There is growing national alarm about the unrecognized dangers of vaping — people are literally dropping dead — which is why all parents should applaud a Bristol Police Department sting operation last weekend. A police team, working with teen volunteers, tested whether local retailers are selling these insidious products to young people.

Turns out some are.

Two separate businesses were caught selling vape products, or e-cigarettes, to people under the age of 18.

Congratulations and thank you to the Bristol police force for taking the initiative and acting in this community’s best interests. The vaping industry has an enormous advantage over parents, as it markets popular flavors like “Surf Cake” and “I Love Cookies Too,” packaged in bright, colorful and cool styles with enormous teen appeal.

They don’t need the aid of teen-“friendly” businesses willing to make a buck while sabotaging a generation’s health.

Here’s hoping the Bristol Police stay vigilant and keep up the good work.