Surprising and cautionary info about those very cool looking laser pointers used in modern classrooms.  It turns out that we need to be very careful with them, and also make sure that the models used in our childrens’ classrooms are safe.  This will surprise you, and may make you want to place a friendly call to the kids’ school to inquire.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning against recreational use of laser pointers, and also certain products that do not meet consumer safety standards.  According to the FDA, “....The light energy from a laser pointer aimed into the eye can be more damaging than staring directly into the sun. And the startling effect of a bright beam of light can cause serious accidents when aimed at a driver in a car, a pilot in a plane, or even a person holding a cup of hot coffee...” We also need to check the radiation emissions from these products, says the FDA.  Some of the models available on the internet are not safe for the average consumer, and must only be used by a professional.