Coast Guard helicopter hit with laser pointer in Port Angeles

SEATTLE (AP) — A Coast Guard helicopter crew conducting a training flight over Clallam County Airport in Port Angeles reportedly suffered a laser strike from an unknown ground source.

The crew of the Dolphin helicopter made a safe landing after the incident Monday night.

Officials say crewmembers in the back of the helicopter reported the laser strike.

Laser pointers can place aircrews in danger due to glare, flash blindness or temporary loss of night vision. It's a federal crime to aim a laser pointer at an aircraft.

The Coast Guard requires air crewmen who suffer lasing to abort their mission for safety reasons.

The Dolphin crew members are being evaluated by medical personnel. They'll be off flight duty until they're cleared by a flight surgeon.

Officials say the laser incidents are on the raise.