Coin-operated breathalysers roll out at more Andalucian fairs to help drivers stay safe and keep out of jail

Local police installed four self-service breathalyser machines at the Algeciras fair, in one of the furthest southern points of mainland Spain, this year. Places in two key spots inside the Antonio Quintero recinto ferial, the devices sit beside the taxi rank near the main gate and at the exit from adult attractions.

Those attending the celebrations can now get an immediate check and confirmation on their alcohol level before driving home after an evening of fun and revelry.

Machines deliver quick results for just one Euro

Working the machines is quite straightforward. Users pay €1 by cash or card. The unit dispenses a fresh disposable mouthpiece. Steady blowing for five to seven seconds follows. Results then display clearly on the lower screen within moments. No connection to mains power proves necessary because solar panels and batteries keep each unit running.

Algeciras builds on earlier success in Marbella

Marbella already trialled the same equipment during its San Bernabe fair earlier in June. The same provider, AlcoholteSA, supplied the machines there too. The pattern is like Malaga’s 2025 rollout, where similar devices proved popular and prompted widespread online discussion. Several other Andalusian towns now consider adding units at their own summer events and perhaps even permanent posts.

Police find viral challenges among younger partygoers

Officers from the local police are said to have observed frequent groups queuing to test one another. Many young people treat the machines as a light-hearted competition to record the highest reading. Social media posts quickly spread the activity. Workers at Caseta El Pito, located directly opposite one machine, joked that the breathalysers generated more business than their own stall during the opening weekend.

Drink-driving figures keep pressure on authorities

Spanish traffic data shows alcohol as a factor in roughly one quarter of fatal road collisions nationally. Andalucian police increase roadside checks during major fiestas to address the problem. Stricter legal limits are due to tighten further in the coming months and are adding more of a sense of urgency to the self-testing. Voluntary machines offer one practical tool to encourage personal responsibility before drivers leave the party.

Fairgoers find extra layer of information available

Taxis, designated drivers and public transport continue to represent the safest options after drinking. These coin-operated units supply additional data for anyone who wishes to use them. Early feedback suggests the machines function reliably and attract steady custom. More locations across the region may introduce similar facilities as the summer season progresses.