Is It Dangerous To Stare at Christmas Light Displays in Idaho?

Laser Danger

If you grew up in the '90s you might remember hearing stories about kids who went blind after staring at laser lights. Did you understand the science behind it? Probably not, but you knew better than to mess around and find out.

Today most of us know pointing a laser light into someone's eyes can cause temporary blindness and even permanent retina damage.

Researchers have concluded that the wide availability of these devices, which are often marketed as toys, could lead to a steep rise in eye injuries, according to a study. [...] However, the natural protective mechanisms of the eye – such as the blink reflex – are ineffective against lasers with an output power greater than five milliwatts, and severe retinal damage may occur, even after momentary exposure. -American Academy of Ophthalmology

If a tiny, trinket-like laser can potentially cause that much damage, what of the full-scale laser light displays that spring up around Boise during the holidays?

Can laser Christmas lights hurt your eyes?

Data released by FDA experts in 2014 showed exposure to laser lights Class II and above posed no threat to the human eye. However, cheaply-made laser lights that might not adhere to FDA safety regulations could emit high-powered lasers that do threaten eye health.

Choosing Safer Christmas Lasers

Laser Christmas lights create undeniably beautiful displays. From Scentsy's highly anticipated walk-through Christmas display in Eagle, to the drive-through holiday excursion at Expo Idaho in Boise, it's obvious how much locals love laser lights. But when it comes to decorating your own home this year, remember to choose FDA-approved Class II and above laser lights!

New to the Treasure Valley? Scroll on for a look at how big we do it up for the holiday season!

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