Vape Dropbox FAQs

1. What materials were used to make the dropboxes?

The drop boxes we used are the “Chelsea Locking Wall Mounted Mailbox.”  We found the best price at Wayfair. The size and cost information can be found at that link. We also purchased paper liners to go inside to keep them clean. Finally, we purchased stickers to help promote the Truth initiative and their quitting text line for the front of the boxes. A grant was used to purchase these materials.

2. How do you keep track of the dropboxes?

We track the number of devices collected through a Google form. Building leaders are encouraged to check the boxes monthly and complete the form at that time using a sticker inside the box door that displays a QR Code linking to the form.

3. What do you do with the collected vape devices?

We work with our local Environmental Services Department and an electronic recycling center to dispose of the cartridges and batteries safely. We encourage that schools allow us to pick up the devices from the schools to ensure they are disposed of properly. These devices contain lithium batteries that can be a fire hazard, and the liquid in cartridges can be hazardous. Therefore, it is important that we maintain a concern for safety and environmental protection.

4. Where did you put the dropboxes?

We installed 14 boxes; there is one in each middle and high school in the district. It's best to place the devices in range of a pre-existing security camera as well as in a location that provides anonymity (like the bottom of a stairwell). Avoid placement near intimidating locations like admin offices. We have not had an issue with vandalism using this arrangement.

5. How long did the process take from start to finish?

Here is the 6-month timeline:

• June-July 2020: Grant application using the idea of drop boxes, started conversation with the district

• September 2020: Approval from district

• October-November 2020: Ordered the boxes and stickers

• December 2020: Dropped boxes and installation instructions off with district

• January 2021: Boxes Installed

6. How did you make this possible?

There were several key individuals on our board and included in the process. Representatives from the schools where we hoped to install them were necessary. The Director of Student Services is part of the coalition and the co-chair of the coalition is the Coordinator of PE, Health and Engagement Activities with the district. The Health Department and our local PRC were involved as well. The Community Partnership of the Ozarks started the partnership around vape education by developing a curriculum and going into the schools to teach the lesson. The partnership has continued to grow. We worked with the district to monitor tobacco violations.

7. Does it work?

We have collected 36 devices between January and May of 2021. 86% of the devices were collected from the high schools. We are happy with this result and will continue our efforts.