MUSD to install vape detectors in bathrooms at middle schools and Moorpark High School
(Moorpark, California) July 27, 2023—As part of its ongoing mission to protect student safety and promote healthy choices, Moorpark Unified School District is installing state-of-the-art vape detectors in the boys' and girls' bathrooms at Moorpark High School, Chaparral Middle School and Mesa Verde Middle School.
The 12 HALO Smart Sensors manufactured by New York-based IPVideo Corp. will be installed before the start of the new school year on August 23.
Because the liquid in an e-cigarette is vaporized instead of burned, the odor and visible vapor cloud disperses quickly, making it very difficult for teachers and staff to catch students in the act.
The HALO Smart Sensors are a proactive solution to tackle the growing concern of students vaping on campus, especially in bathrooms. These devices have proven successful in other school districts across California and the United States, reducing vaping in campus bathrooms and promoting a healthier learning environment.
The vape detectors are equipped with advanced features designed to efficiently detect vaping activities, whether the vape oil contains nicotine or THC.
The sensors protect the privacy of individuals as it does not use cameras, record audio or capture any personally identifiable information.
The HALO Smart Sensors alarm system is engineered to swiftly respond to potential threats, including aggression, i.e., fights, loud noises such as gunshots, and spoken keywords that may indicate distress or the need for immediate assistance. Additionally, tamper detection further protects the system against interference.
The sensors include comprehensive environmental monitoring that encompasses particulate measurements, calibrated carbon dioxide levels, total volatile organic compounds detection, carbon monoxide levels, temperature and humidity tracking, light level sensing and sound level monitoring.
Upon detecting problems within a bathroom, i.e., vaping, a fight or vandalism, the detectors trigger real-time alerts that are immediately sent to school administrators via text messages. This enables administrators to respond promptly to any concerning situations and take necessary actions to ensure the safety of students.
To ensure the integrity of the vape detectors, MUSD has installed tamper-proof enclosures for each device. Any attempt at tampering will activate an alarm, discouraging any potential misbehavior and maintaining a secure school environment.
“I firmly believe that the installation of vape detectors in the bathrooms is a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students,” Superintendent Dr. Kelli Hays said. “These high-tech detectors will help us tackle the vaping issue on campus and create a healthier learning environment. When we can quickly spot vaping activities and discourage such behavior, we're making sure our students have the best possible space to grow, learn and stay healthy.”