When using a laser pointer, safety should be kept in mind. Like many technologies available to the public, there are certain precautions that should be taken.

The danger from a laser pointer to humans is to the eye’s retina. After testing by the US Government, a limit of 5mW has been set on the power of these little devices. Even at that low level, 10 seconds of exposure to the human retina can cause perment eye damage. For this reason, never stare into a laser or allow anyone to do so.

Seeing the beam is not the danger. Looking down the beam to its source is where the danger exists. Just like looking down the nozzle of a gasoline pump at a filling station is unwise, never stare into the end of the laser pen.

If someone at a distance is using a laser pointer and you see them with a set of binoculars or telescope, do not look directly at them. The optics of your device amplifies the laser beam, and eye damage can occur in a shorter period of time. It is your responsibility to protect yourself.

Laser beams bounce off of reflective surfaces, and this too has the potential to do eye damage. Do not stare at mirrors or glass when a pointer is in use.

The classification of your laser is labeled on the pointer itself. This is the law, as required by the FDA, for any laser sold in America. There are more powerful lasers available but they are not legal to purchase or use them in the United States as a laser pointer.

Many of the foreign-made lasers have filters on the ends where the laser beam is emitted. If, for any reason, these filters are removed, the laser is more powerful and can cause eye damage in a shorter period of time. Replace the filter, or remove the batteries so the laser cannot be used.

When operating a laser pointer, safety should be your main concern. Children think it is a toy, but only let them play with one under parental supervision. Blindness of a child is a terrible thing and can be avoided if the proper precautions are taken.