STROBE LIGHTING EFFECTS
We at Audio Knights realise that some parties would like strobe lighting to add to the effect. Due to certain people having PHOTO SENSITIVE EPILEPSY which can trigger siezures, we recommend that you discuss with friends and family to find out if it would be safe to use at your event. We will only use a strobe light effect if our disclaimer has been read and signed and you understand the implications of using a strobe light. They are a great effect and would only be used for a few minutes at a time to reduce the risks. If you would like to learn more about strobe lighting and it's possible effects please do not hesitate in contacting us. We have attached an article below that briefly describes the use and possible downsides of strobe lighting.
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Strobe lights are frequently found at house parties, clubs, skating rinks, and other entertainment venues. They are used to create a feeling of slight disorientation that is intended to enhance a dance floor or other facility to make it more fun and exciting. For some people, disorientation is extremely uncomfortable and can induce a feeling of vertigo or nausea. For others, particularly individuals with epilepsy, strobe lights can actually induce a seizure and put the epileptic individual in danger.
The Basics of Epilepsy and Photosensitivity
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes some people to have uncontrolled and unexpected seizures. For some people, these seizures can be triggered by visual stimuli. This is known as photosensitive epilepsy. A photosensitive epileptic may have a negative response to flashing lights, kaleidoscopic effects, moving patterns, or even static patterns that repeat, such as striped or checkered patterns. Emergency lights, strobe lights, fast action sequences, and other visual effects can induce a seizure for photosensitive epileptics.
Reducing the Risk
Each individual's level of photosensitivity varies. Some individuals may be extremely sensitive even with static patterns, while others may only be affected be rapidly flashing lights. Lower frequencies of flashing are less likely to induce a seizure and are therefore safer for most individuals. The British Health and Safety Executive claims that a frequency of five flashes per second is safe for about 95% of photosensitive epileptics, leaving only 5% at risk. Some epileptic individuals, particularly children, never know that they are photosensitive until they have a strong reaction and experience a seizure.
If you feel uncomfortable around strobe lights, consider turning away and leaving the room or at least situating yourself further from the light source. Events and venues that plan to use strobe lights should post signs and warn visitors that they will be in use. Taking these precautions can help to minimize the risk of a medical emergency.