What Is a Vape Detector? The Definitive 2023 Analysis

Vaping and smoking are persistent problems in schools, and school officials struggle to keep it out of their institutions. Vape detection sensors can provide them with a method of discouraging students from vaping and smoking on campus. However, there are many pros and cons to consider before spending money on them.

Vape Detection Defined: What They Can Do for Your Organization

Vaping is much more complicated to detect than burning tobacco or marijuana. These detectors are powered by batteries that heat a liquid and turn it into vapor that is inhaled. The vapor usually contains nicotine, CBD, or THC.

The US federal government recently issued several regulations banning flavored disposable vapes and pods because it is believed they are marketed to children. However, these products are still easy to buy, as cheap Chinese flavored pods and disposables are still entering the United States.

Vape Detection as a Deterrent

As a result, school districts are installing specially designed sensors that can detect tobacco and marijuana smoke and vapor from e-cigarettes. They are ideal for rooms where video cameras are inappropriate, such as locker rooms, shower facilities, and restrooms.

Smoke and Vape Detection Helps Solve a Growing Problem

Even though these detectors are not always effective, they are a new tool to combat the growing problem of teen vaping. A recent report issued by the Centers for Disease Control highlights how big of a problem e-cigarettes and tobacco are. The report included information from the National Youth Tobacco Survey that stated 6.2 million middle and high school students used a tobacco product within 30 days of taking the survey in 2019. The survey also noted that 4.7 million high schoolers and 1.5 million middle schoolers use tobacco regularly. More students use e-cigarettes than tobacco. More than a quarter of high students and 10 percent of middle schoolers commonly use them.

Features to Look for in Smoke and Vapor Detection Solutions

For a vape detector to work effectively, it should have the following features:

1. Multiple Sensors: A vape detector should detect sound, vapor, and volatile organic compounds. Such detectors keep schools fire code compliant and allow for building managers to catch people smoking and vaping.
2. Cloud-Based: Cloud-based detectors are much easier to manage and monitor. Additionally, it should be easy to integrate them into an organization’s existing security infrastructure.
3. Tampering Alarm: Ensure the device has a tampering alarm that will notify administrators if someone has attempted to destroy or disable it.
4. Can Be Operated Remotely: Make sure the device can be configured and operated remotely.
5. Immediate Notifications: Each vape sensor should be capable of sending notifications to campus police and administrators by text message, email, or some other method.

Halo Vape Detector

The Halo Vape Detector is an example of a vape detection system that has all of the above specifications.

1. Multiple Sensors: The Halo device can detect audio keywords and monitor air quality. They are ideal for detecting tobacco smoke and e-cigarette vapor. They can also detect carbon monoxide, shouting, and gunshots.
2. Fast Alerts: Notifications are sent to those responsible for monitoring them via text, email, and other methods.
3. Cloud: The Halo Cloud allows users to manage multiple detectors remotely.
4. Compatible with Different Locations: These devices can be used in schools, universities, businesses, or