• Laser pointers can damage a person's eyes.Dougal Waters/Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  Laser pointers can be a helpful tool for anyone speaking in front of a group. The laser pointer can be used to illustrate points and guide the listener through a presentation. Laser pointers, however, are also used in a variety of ways beyond a presentation and not always in line with the manufacturers' intent for use. The biggest hazard associated with laser pointers is damage, whether temporary or permanent, to a person's eyes.
  
  

Retina Damage

• The most serious hazard associated with a laser pointer is damage to the retina causing permanent vision damage. Most laser pointers sold in the United States are not powerful enough to cause permanent damage to the retina, however, as of 2010, there are no restrictions for purchasing laser pointers in the United States.
  
  

Flashblindness

• According to Princeton University Environmental Health and Safety, flashblindness is, "temporary vision impairment after viewing a bright light." This is comparable to the effect the flash on a camera can have on the eyes. Flashblindness can occur if the laser pointer is shined directly into the eyes.
  
  

Afterimage

• Afterimage is the equivalent of seeing spots. After the laser pointer contacts the eye, your vision will suffer from an optical illusion and you will see spots. Afterimage impairs your vision and can last for several minutes or longer.
  
  

Glare

• Princeton University Environmental Health and Safety describes glare as, "a reduction or complete loss of visibility in the central field of vision while being exposed to the direct or scattered beam." Glare can result when the laser beam is reflected off a surface into your vision. The beam will not cause any damage to your eye, but the resulting glare can reduce your visibility.
  
  

Confusion and Distraction

• In addition to causing temporary or permanent damage, a laser pointer can also be a major distraction. Police officers and others can mistake a laser pointer beam with a beam from the scope of a weapon. Even if it does not cause any vision damage, a laser pointer can be a distraction. Laser pointers have delayed Major League Baseball games when the beam was aimed at batters. According to MLB, a 2005 game between the Philadelphia Phillies and St. Louis Cardinals was delayed by a fan shining a laser pointer onto the field.