EXPLAINER: What you need to know about flash lights in vehicles

In the space of emergency services, there exists a silent but powerful ally called the strobe light (flash lights).

A strobe light is a high-intensity flashing beam of light produced by rapid electrical discharges in a tube or by a perforated disc rotating in front of an intense light source.

This unassuming yet impactful device serves as a signal of authority, cutting through the ordinary with its pulsating brilliance.

Picture the convoy of vehicles slicing through the streets or highways, adorned with these bright lights.

Strobe lights, synonymous with security and emergency service providers as ambulances, go beyond mere illumination, they symbolize a presence that demands attention and commands respect.

Amidst the rising cases of alleged misuse by unauthorized personnel, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei ordered a crackdown on all those using vehicles with these lights and sirens.

Koskei told all accounting officers in offices including Parliament, Judiciary, county governments and Independent Commissions to remove any unauthorized vehicles using the gadgets.

But what exactly are strobe lights?

Strobe lights, which in most cases come in blue and red colours, are intense, rapidly flashing lights.

They emit brief bursts of light at regular intervals, creating a strobe effect and are used for various purposes.

Strobe lights on vehicles serve as crucial visual signals in emergencies, enhancing visibility for law enforcement, ambulances, and other response vehicles.

What they are designed for

Strobe lights, often fitted on the roof or the front part of the car are used for visibility purposes.

They are designed to capture the attention of other road users.

In case of an emergency, these high-intensity lights are used as an alert for motorists to clear the way.

The order of Precedence Act 2014 outlines the provisions for the entitlement to use of siren by the President, Deputy President, speakers and the Chief Justice.

This is in addition to the police, fire engines and ambulances.

What does the law say about it?

In Kenya, the use of strobe lights on vehicles is regulated by Traffic laws.

According to the police, the Traffic Act Cap 403 section 34 outlines the use of sirens and strobe lights.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja noted that rule 83 on the traffic rules and regulation priorities the use of sirens by the police, fire engines and ambulances.

Kanja recently sent a memo to all police commanders informing them of having received complaints regarding harassment on roads and highways by unauthorized persons using strobe lights, light bars, sirens, and lead/chase cars.

Koskei further said the process of obtaining approvals for the installation and use of strobe lights, sirens, and associated equipment for vehicles not authorized by the law is outlined, and individuals wishing to use such equipment may request authorization in accordance with the procedure provided.

Section 58 (Sub-Section 1) of the Act states that offenders found guilty of contravening Section 55 of the law risk spending two years in jail, a fine of Sh400,000, or both

"Any person who drives or uses on a road a vehicle in contravention of the provisions of section 55 or section 56 shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding four hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or to both,” it states.

According to police, the LED lights targeted are unlawfully equipped lamps, modified illuminating lights, red lights, opaque rear lights, flashing lights, flickering lights, LED illuminating lights, unauthorized sirens and unauthorised red and blue lights.

What do doctors say about the lights? Are there any effects on the eyes?

Strobe lights are known to cause eye strains and discomfort but have no serious effects.

Medical experts say there are no documented cases of eyesight problems as a result of these particular lights.

Mohammad Mahdy, an ophthalmologist at Longisa Referral Hospital, however, notes that prolonged staring at high-density lights can have some effects.

He says to avoid any problems there is a need to avoid looking at it directly and for a longer time.