Long Island Schools Using Breathalyzers at Prom

In an attempt to deter underage drinking before the prom, several Long Island high schools have turned to using breath tests to detect alcohol usage.

According to a Newsday article:

Long Island students face suspensions for drinking, and seniors are barred from graduation ceremonies, officials say. Some districts call police when a student is found with alcohol on his or her breath.

With Mineola set to hold its prom Thursday night, the district does not use these alcohol-detection devices, the school district does utilize other methods of deterrence Principal Ed Escobar told Patch.

If any student brings alcohol or appears intoxicated they are immediately sent home but “we don’t have that as an issue which is a good thing” Escobar said Wednesday, adding that before students get to the prom venue, their bags are checked and a photo is taken of them with an administrator – a practice which has been going on for several years.

 “It’s a good deterrent,” Escobar said.

Receive updates to this story and breaking news in your inbox or smartphone by signing up for our newsletter here.