>I've hit myself in the eye with the beam on occasion and incidental
>exposures are harmless.  I wouldn't suggest aiming for a ferret's eye, but
>it isn't dangerous.  The warning on the pointer is just something legally
>required, much like the warning on the application for a ferret license, and
>has no bearing on reality.
 
Well, the warning isn't just for legal reasons.  A quick incidental hitting
of the retina will not cause damage.  However, if the laser is held fixed in
one location for an extended period, it can and will damage the retina of
the eye and leave a blind spot.  This is similar in concept to using a
magnifying glass to burn something.  You must hold the magnifying glass in
one location for a while to generate the required heat.
 
Having said that, your main point is valid.  I have used my laser pointer
with my Ferret a few times, and it is not a problem so long as the beam is
kept pointing away from the eyes and toward the floor.  Even if I hit her
eyes, it would not hurt her.
 
Dan
 
*****    Dan Eliot, Biology/Life Science Teacher   *****
*****   El Dorado High School, Placentia, CA, USA  *****
*****  US Mail:  PO Box 1372, Placentia, CA 92670  *****
*****   E-Mail:   [log in to unmask]   *****
[Posted in FML issue 1408]