I remember how when laser pointers started proliferating there was a media panic over their potential use in downing aircraft and blinding people. Schools swiftly moved to ban them(I recall being in a few assemblies where someone brought in a pointer and caused some mild, easily ignored disruption).<p>Regardless, the world hasn&#x27;t blown up. You can still legally own a laser pointer in most countries, subject to various power limits. The risks and responsibilities involved in their use are real, but have to be weighed against every other hazard.