A New York school district has taken steps to combat the teenage vaping epidemic by installing vape detectors in the bathrooms of Lindenhurst Middle School on Long Island. The FlySense FS300 vape detectors are capable of detecting nicotine and THC in the air, as well as sound to alert officials of fights or bullying incidents. Two detectors have been installed in each of the bathrooms, with funding provided by the Town of Babylon using funds from the American Rescue Plan. Derek Peterson of Soter Technologies, which developed the detectors, explained that they can also detect aggressive behavior, in addition to vaping substances.
The detectors are equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms that can differentiate between normal sounds in the bathroom and potential incidents of aggression. Principal Frank Naccarato receives an email notification when anomalies are detected, allowing for immediate intervention. Students caught vaping are connected to professional services, and are required to participate in an educational component on the dangers of vaping. Despite concerns about privacy, Peterson clarified that there are no microphones in the devices, assuaging fears of eavesdropping or recording private conversations.
Since the installation of the detectors two weeks ago, two students have already been caught vaping and connected to professional intervention services. The idea to install the detectors was suggested by 15-year-old student Vanessa Probst, who had learned from her friends that some of her classmates were so addicted to vaping that they would sneak away to the bathrooms during school hours. Probst had conducted research on the harmful effects of vaping, including risks of lung damage and cancer, which motivated her to advocate for the installation of the detectors in the school bathrooms.
The success of the pilot program at Lindenhurst Middle School has prompted plans to expand the installation of vape detectors to Lindenhurst High School, as well as other school districts including Copiague and Wyandanch. The use of surveillance technology in schools to combat the teenage vaping epidemic reflects a broader trend across the country, with many schools investing millions in detection devices and other preventive measures. The detectors are anticipated to help school officials identify and address vaping incidents more quickly, while also providing educational resources to students to discourage substance abuse.
Critics of the surveillance measures in schools have raised concerns about privacy and the potential for overreach in monitoring student behavior. However, supporters argue that the detectors are necessary to protect students from the health risks associated with vaping, as well as to prevent other issues such as bullying or violence. By providing a combination of detection technology and intervention services, school districts hope to address the root causes of problematic behavior among students and promote a healthier school environment. As the use of vape detectors becomes more widespread, school officials will continue to monitor their effectiveness and adjust their strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
