A flash suppressor is a device attached to the muzzle of a firearm that reduces the visible light produced when a bullet is fired. This helps to conceal the shooter's position, especially in low-light conditions, by minimizing the bright flash that occurs when gunpowder ignites. Flash suppressors work by cooling and dispersing the gases that exit the barrel, which decreases the intensity of the flash. They are commonly used on military rifles, such as the M16, and can also be found on some civilian firearms to enhance shooting accuracy and safety during nighttime operations.