To the Editor: Raphael and Burns highlighted the strong police response to the hostage situation in Sydney in 2014.1 Diversionary devices, such as the flash-bang grenades used in Sydney, have been increasingly used to distract and disorientate people in civilian hostage and riot situations internationally. While not intended to cause permanent damage, there are risks associated with their use.
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- 1. Raphael B, Burns P. The Sydney siege: courage, compassion and connectedness. Med J Aust 2015; 202: 70-71. <MJA full text>
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- 5. Clinton P. The hazards of flash-bangs. POLICE Magazine 2011; Feb 28. http://www.policemag.com/blog/swat/story/2011/02/the-hazards-of-flash-bang-devices.aspx (accessed Feb 2015).
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Annette Hoskin's position receives funding from the Joyce Henderson Bequest Fund.
No relevant disclosures.