Watch CBS News

Sheetz Testing Blue Lights In Bathrooms To Deter Drug Use By Making It Difficult For People To See Their Veins

NEW KENSINGTON, Pa. (AP) — A Pennsylvania gas station is testing whether blue lights in bathrooms can discourage drug use by making it difficult for people to see their veins.

The Sheetz gas station chain has installed the lights at its New Kensington location as a pilot project.

Philadelphia Police Spoof 'Stranger Things' Opening To Promote #NoSavesies

Sheetz says it's working with local police on the initiative. Spokesman Nick Ruffner says the lighting is designed to help customers and employees "avoid dangerous situations." He says it's being tested at that store "for the time being."

New Kensington resident Nathan Murray Sinicki tells WPXI-TV the bathroom's blue hue is jarring at first but if the unorthodox deterrent works he supports it.

Some doctors have their doubts. They say drug users can feel for their veins when they can't see them.

Fat Squirrel Steals Pricey Goods Left Out For Delivery Folks

WJAC-TV reports 179 people have died from drugs in Westmoreland County this year.

(Copyright 2017 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.