DIY Breathalyzers

Your driving may be affected no matter how little you've had to drink.

Drinking and driving is a serious matter. One problem with drunk driving laws is that drivers aren't always able to easily calculate blood-alcohol levels. In most states, a driver is considered impaired if he or she has a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. One way to ensure that you're not over the legal limit if you're driving is to test yourself. There are many breathalyzers available for personal use. Specific features vary, but the basic operation is similar.

Instructions

1. Turn on the device. Use the power button. Allow the device to warm up. This takes about 10 seconds. There will likely be an auditory or visual alert to indicate that the device is ready for use. If it is not working, check or replace the batteries.

2. Blow into the device. There is a tube-shaped mouthpiece for this purpose. Blow into the device for about six seconds. If you've eaten or drank anything in the previous 10 minutes, including alcohol, the device may not return an accurate reading.

3. Wait for the results. The results of your breathalyzer will register in a moment. Depending on the model, your blood alcohol level will be displayed as a digital readout, or a range indicated by different colored LED lights.

References

• Breath-Tester: MC-6883 Stylish LED Alcohol Tester

Resources

• Q3 Innovations: Personal Safety & Monitoring Devices: AlcoHAWK Breathalyzers
• Breathalyzers from AK Solutions USA, LLC
• BACTRACK: Track Your Blood Alcohol Content
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Injury Prevention and Control: Motor Vehicle Safety: Effects of Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)