If you fail to hang the Christmas lights in the Tricity in the correct way, you may face a fine of $11,000.

On weekends, my neighbors hung up their lights, and they look great. I did notice that they have some fancy laser lights. These lights have become a growing concern of the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).

We posted a similar story at our sister station in Boise, which gave me insight into the facts about lasers and how they affect the aircraft overhead. I didn't realize it was one thing, but I quickly realized that it is very dangerous for airplanes and air pilots.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the laser light is not pointed in the right direction and can shoot directly into the sky, distracting the pilot. The lights may not look that bright, but according to the FAA, there are more and more reports that lasers are pointed at the sky and interfere with aircraft in the sky.

Did you know that if you use these types of lights, you may be fined $11,000 by FFA?

The FAA issued a warning about laser lights on its website:

Below are the details of the FAA

The FAA is continuing to carry out propaganda activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to reduce laser attacks nationwide.

Pointing a laser at an aircraft poses a serious safety risk to pilots and may damage their eyesight.

Pointing a laser at an airplane is a federal crime. The FAA works closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to impose civil and criminal penalties on those who deliberately aim lasers at aircraft.

The agency may take enforcement actions against people who violate Federal Aviation Regulations, irradiating aircraft with lasers, and each violation can be fined up to $11,000 in civil fines.

The FAA can impose civil fines of up to $30,800 on people who repeatedly violate laser regulations.

A large number of reported incidents clearly show that laser strikes on aircraft still pose a serious threat to aviation safety.

In the past few years, reports of laser lights and lights not hanging properly have been escalating. The FAA reported more than 6000 cases last year, which could mean a fine of $11,000, or even more if you are a repeat offender.

It's better to be safe than sorry, and make sure if there are any laser lights on your property, they point in the right direction instead of pointing to the sky. You can read more details about the FFA warning release here.