The flashbang is a diversionary device that stuns and disorients people with an explosive report and a brillant flash. People that are affected by the device can be temporarily blinded and deafened by the blast. During this time SWAT has a significant tactical advantage over the affected persons.
Flashbangs are designed so that they will not fragment on detonation, but can still cause serious injury if detonation occurs in close proximity to a person. Caution is advised.