The use of gel guns at funk events is raising serious alarms among public safety advocates and health professionals. What may seem like harmless fun at organized gatherings, often dubbed 'wars' where participants shoot gel balls at one another, can lead to dangerous consequences. Videos circulating on social media depict groups engaged in these playful battles, blissfully unaware of the potential dangers involved.
Though the gel balls fired from these replica guns are made to disintegrate upon impact, reports indicate they can cause significant injuries, particularly to the eyes. According to the Sociedade Brasileira de Oftalmologia (SBO), the gel balls can penetrate the eye if fired with sufficient force, leading to internal injuries and possibly causing complete or partial vision loss. Dr. Joaquim Queiroz Jr., the SBO's Regional Vice-President for the North, warns, "The gel balls, when fired with force, can perforate the eyeball, causing internal injuries and leading to loss of vision. The impact could result in bruising, inflammation, or even retinal detachment."
Worse yet, some participants have been reported to freeze gel balls to increase their hardness before use. This practice exacerbates the risk of injury, as these more resilient projectiles can inflict greater damage upon impact. Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to these accidents, prompting health experts to urge caution. Dr. Queiroz Jr. emphasizes the importance of protective eyewear during such activities and advises immediate medical attention following any eye injury.
Beyond the health risks, the rise of gel guns has caught the attention of law enforcement agencies due to their resemblance to real firearms. While many of these replicas feature bright colors, some are available in darker shades like black and dark green, making them more realistic if seen from afar. A quick search online reveals prices ranging from R$79.90 to R$650, easily accessible to youths.
A recent note from the Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia (INMETRO) clarified the status of these gel guns, stating they are not toys and are not regulated as such. According to INMETRO’s 2021 guidelines, toys are defined as products intended for use by children under 14, placing gel guns outside this category. This lack of regulation means they can be sold freely, which raises additional safety concerns.
Legal frameworks also come under scrutiny as they pertain to the sale and use of these devices. Dennis Verbicaro, a representative from the Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (OAB-PA) and law professor, indicates the sales of toy-like firearms are prohibited under Brazilian law due to the risks they pose when mistaken for real weapons. According to Article 26 of the Estatuto do Desarmamento, it is illegal to sell or manufacture toy guns or replicas resembling firearms.
While the laws limit certain sales, such as for airsoft or paintball guns, restrictions remain based on age—limited to individuals over 18—ensuring these devices must be distinctly marked to avoid confusion with real guns. Verbicaro emphasizes, "There are legal prohibitions against manufacturing and selling toy firearms, intended to protect public safety, particularly for children."
Experts also recommend caution and protective measures for those participating, including the use of eye protection, to mitigate the risks of eye injuries associated with the use of gel guns. Should incidents occur, proper emergency measures should be followed; Dr. Queiroz suggests washing the eyes or applying cold compresses if any injury occurs before seeking professional help.
Current discussions revolving around the use of gel guns at social events highlight the pressing need for increased awareness and the implementation of safety regulations. The dual threat of physical injury and public safety concerns ensures this issue remains at the forefront of community discussions. Authorities and medical professionals must collaborate to devise safety protocols and educate the public about the potential risks of these seemingly innocuous weapons.
With the informal atmosphere of funk events, the combination of youthful exuberance and rising popularity of gel guns could lead to disastrous outcomes if not addressed properly. The excitement of the activities must not overshadow the importance of safety, making it imperative for organizers, participants, and parents to work together to establish safe environments. The increased visibility and awareness of the dangers associated with gel guns may contribute to more responsible usage, ensuring these activities could remain fun without compromising safety.
This trend within funk events serves as both entertainment and cautionary tale—a reminder to prioritize health and safety over reckless fun. Youth engagement, education, and enforcement of safety measures are keys to mitigating the risks associated with gel guns, ensuring everyone can enjoy festivities without fear of injury.