Pilots blinded by Christmas laser light display in Reno

On Tuesday, December 22, 2015 the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office RAVEN helicopter conducting a routine flight in the Reno area when the pilots were temporarily blinded by red and green lasers that were directed into the helicopter cockpit.

RAVEN pilots and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies investigated the origin of the laser beams and found that they were a part of a residential Christmas light display. Laser landscaping projector lights are seen more frequently in outdoor holiday displays and can be easily purchased on-line or in stores. Deputies were able to contact the homeowners to share with them the dangers associated with laser lights and assist them with correct placement and adjustment of the lights.

While this incident was not intentional and the RAVEN pilots were not injured, The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind citizens, especially those who may live in the flight path, to adjust their laser projected lights. The adjustment should ensure that all beams of laser light be focused on the home to avoid any stray lighting.

The Reno Flight Standards District Office of the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that homeowners move their laser projected lighting closer to their residence or move the projection from an elevated area down toward their home.

Any questions related to laser Christmas lighting can be directed to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office at (775) 328-3001.