In New Philadelphia, a high school is taking a stance against underage drinking by requiring prom guests to submit to a breathalyzer before entering the event.

Buckeye Career Center announced the approach this week ahead of the dance this Saturday, April 7^th. Buckeye Career Center is encouraging students to stay sober and drug free, but note the extra step is to better protect students even more.

“We want to make sure that our students enjoy their prom the right way,” said Superintendent Bob Alspet. “The use of breathalyzers help reinforce the importance of our young people making wise decisions. We want our students to be safe and have fun.”

Each prom attendee will be required to take a breathalyzer test by blowing into the handheld machine, before entering. The tests will be administered by trained BCC staff.

This is the third-year breathalyzers have been used at prom. New Philadelphia Police officers will also be on site to address any violations.

Students are asked to refrain from chewing gum, chewing breath mints, or using mouthwash prior to being breathalyzed as it could lead to a false-positive test result and delayed entry.

Students are reminded to enter and exit the building at the Joe Carlisle Café Marketplace entrance. Public viewing of the student-made decorations is from 6:30 p.m. to 7:10 p.m. with promenade beginning at 7:15 p.m.

Michaela Madison Reporting