Schools in the U.S. are now using surveillance cameras and sensors to catch students who are vaping inside toilets and other facilities.
Young people's vaping habits are among the major concerns of parents and officials since the United States doesn't completely ban the use of these e-cigarettes.
As of writing the U.S. law states that Americans older than 21 years old are allowed to use vaping products. But, schools don't prohibit vaping inside campuses no matter how old students are.
However, is using surveillance technology to catch students vaping a good thing to do? Here's what Americans need to know.
Schools Now Use Surveillance Cameras, Sensors To Catch Students Vaping
According to The Associated Press' latest report, numerous schools are now relying on surveillance cameras, sensors, and other similar technologies to identify students who vape inside their facilities.
Right now, middle and high schools in the U.S. are overwhelmed by vaping products their students bring and use. Reports revealed that millions of minors are still vaping despite authorities limiting sales of e-cigarettes by raising the age limit to 21 years old.
Because of this issue, schools are left with no choice but to use surveillance cameras, which are usually paired with sensors. These monitoring devices are placed inside bathrooms.
But, they are not really 24/7 active. The sensors will only turn on these surveillance cameras if they detect smoke from students who are vaping inside comfort rooms.
Some students shared that those who are caught vaping inside the schools can receive a misdemeanor citation and be fined $100 or more. Aside from this, they could also be arrested on felony charges if their vapes contain THC; the chemical used to make marijuana.
"The vape detectors have been efficient in detecting when students are vaping, allowing us to address the issue immediately," said the Tyler school district.
Read Also : France's Disposable Vape Ban Backed by French Parliament, But Upper House Senate's Approval Still Needed
Why Using Surveillance Tech in Schools is Bad
There's no denying that using surveillance cameras and sensors can help school officials and staff catch minors who are using vapes. Aside from this, these monitoring devices are also used to ensure the safety of kids.
They help teachers, principals, and other staff to know if students are getting bullied. Surveillance technologies can also help prevent mass shootings, suicides, and self-harm incidents.
However, The Guardian reported that using monitoring gadgets can have dire consequences. These surveillance cameras and sensors can lead to anxiety, fear, and unease among students.
Public Interest Privacy Center President Amelia Vance said that using surveillance technologies in schools can discourage students from seeking help from teachers and other staff.
"I think the problem is much of what we're doing when it comes to student surveillance technology only makes us feel safer," explained ACLU National Office's Senior Policy Counsel Chad Marlow.
"But it doesn't actually make the kids any safer ... and it's hurting our kids in the process," he added.
