E-Cigarette Use Increasing Among Wilton High School Students

WILTON, CT — A method of tobacco use that has risen in popularity among students nationwide has also seen increased use at Wilton High School, according to the school.

In a message to parents posted to the Wilton High School web page, school officials indicated that the use of e-cigarettes, an activity commonly known as vaping, has grown in popularity among the school's student body. The notice said that the activity is banned at school, and urged parents to talk about the dangers of vaping with their children.

"Dear parents, here is some information and resources about vaping, an activity that is increasing among our student population," the notice read."Please recognize that it is against school rules to vape while in school. Please take the time to have a conversation with your child about the health risks of vaping."

In an interview with the Wilton Bulletin, Principal Robert O'Donnell said that there have been students found vaping at school or being found in possession of devices, but "not a lot."

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, more than a quarter of students in grades 6 through 12 and more than a third of young adults have tried e-cigarettes in 2015.

The school shared a notice with parents, which indicated that e-cigarettes are marketed in flavors that appeal to young people. The notice also highlighted the JUUL product, which the notice said looks like a flash drive operating on cartridges that contain 50 mg of nicotine, which are equivalent to a pack of cigarettes.

The possession or purchase of the devices by minors is against state law. Public Act No. 14-76, signed into law in 2014, prohibits minors from buying or possessing "electronic nicotine delivery systems."

Read more from the Wilton Bulletin here.

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