(ST.MARYS, ON) – On Sunday December 27, 2015, shortly after 11:30 p.m., Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers responded to a call from a concerned motorist in St.Marys who had a laser beam shone in her eye.
Investigation revealed that the motorist was stopped in the east bound lane on Queen Street East at the Water St. traffic lights. A black SUV pulled up behind the motorist and one of the two male occupants of the SUV shone a green laser light into the motorist’s vehicle. The motorist looked in the rear view mirror just as the laser beam was directed at the mirror, causing her to be temporarily blinded. The black SUV continued eastbound on Queen St. East past the Tim Hortons restaurant.
A subsequent check with the driver revealed that she was still experiencing pain behind her eye. She was urged to seek medical attention.
The Perth County OPP urges the public to use common sense when using laser pointers, as even “legal” laser pointers can be a potential hazard if the light distracts or temporarily flash-blinds a person such as a motorists or a pilot. As such, a laser pointer should NEVER be aimed at the driver of a vehicle or an aircraft.
Playing with laser pointers could cause a major accident. For this reason it is illegal and a criminal offence to point a laser at an aircraft. Offenders will be charged under the Aeronautics Act, and if convicted could face up to $100.000 in fines, 5 years in prison, or both.
How to reduce the risk while using laser pointers:
Be wary of internet sales or the purchase of lasers advertised for purposes other than pointing or beam-display (ex: for burning, balloon popping).
Look for warning labels, safety features and instructions which explain how to properly handle the laser.
Choose a laser pointer that stays on only when the button is pressed. That way you can never leave the beam on by accident.
Never point a laser beam at anyone, nor look directly into the beam.
Never aim a laser pointer at surfaces that would reflect the light back, like mirrors or mirrored surfaces.
Never leave a laser pointer within the reach of children. Do not allow children to use laser pointers.
If you are uncertain about the classification of a laser, contact the manufacturer or retailer.
Never ‘play around’ with lasers, as they can be a fire hazard, cause flash blindness or even permanent eye damage.
Laser pointers can be useful, educational and fun when used appropriately. They allow you to point out things that are not normally within reaching distance. Laser pointers have become increasingly popular therefor the police are reminding everyone to operate them in a mature and safe manner.
The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone with information about the individuals responsible for this dangerous act to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), and you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000