Protecting Law Enforcement Officers from Lasers

Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for my law enforcement friends and involves the use of lasers in public places. 

Now folks, I’m not talking about high-tech weapons from sci-fi movies. We’re talking about the hand-held lasers available to consumers. People use lasers at public events for many different reasons — some harmless, some nefarious. As a police officer, it’s important to be aware of their use and to know how to protect yourself. 

Some people aim lasers at police officers to distract or temporarily flash-blind them. 

Lasers are commonly used at concerts or festivals as part of a light show. This type of laser use is generally harmless and fun. 

However, lasers can also be used in harmful or disruptive ways. For example, some people use them to try to distract or disorient performers or athletes. Others aim lasers at police officers to distract or temporarily flash-blind them, often at protests. This isn’t a minor concern, folks. The beam from a laser pointer can cause blindness, lasting for hours or even months. Laser use can also be used to draw attention away from criminal activity. 

So how do you protect yourself? First, your agency should consider communicating to the public the potential legal consequences for prohibited laser use. Pointing a laser at an aircraft in flight is a federal offense. And laser use against a peace officer can result in criminal charges.   

Second, be aware of laser use and how to protect yourself. When you see lasers being used, you can reduce your exposure through frequent blinking, looking away or shielding your eyes. If you’re patrolling a First Amendment assembly, you may need to take additional precautions. These can include adding laser-absorbing strips to your face shield or using special protective eyewear. 

While the risk of permanent physical damage from laser exposure is low, the chance of being distracted or temporarily blinded is real. Remain vigilant and take immediate action — especially if the laser use seems motivated to cause harm to yourself or others. 

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.