WEST LONG BRANCH- In part of an effort to reduce the risk of drunk driving after prom, officers from the West Long Branch Police Department held a seminar showing Shore students the effects of drinking and driving. Students drove a golf cart around cones while texting and wearing goggles that simulated conditions of intoxication.

“This is a very good thing for kids to learn,” said Alexa Paolantonio, daughter of West Long Branch Police Department Sergeant, Mike Paolantonio.

In New Jersey, a BAC of 0.01 is considered over the legal limit for a person under the age of 21. The penalty for underage drinking and driving in the state is a suspended license for 180 days, and a minimum fine of $500. Underage offenders can also be sent to an alcohol treatment center.

The police officers had the high school students use Alcohol Impairment Simulation Goggles, otherwise known as “Drunk Goggles.” The goggles simulate five different Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC) configurations ranging from 0.04 to extremely high impairment at 0.35. Other goggles on display displayed the effects of being high on marijuana, as well.