We all heard about it, most of us playing the game.
Safety should be a major consideration when playing “Pokémon Go,” a game that requires trainers to explore the real world in order to expand and cultivate their stock of digital pets. Here are a few safety tips for parents and players alike when playing Nintendo’s new augmented reality game.
Make sure someone knows your itinerary
Let someone know where you’ll be going to catch Pokémon and roughly when you’ll return. “Pokémon Go” is also played exclusively on mobile phones, so there’s no excuse to neglect checking in if plans change.
Don’t go out alone
The buddy system is especially important when playing “Pokémon Go.” This is always sound advice whenever you’re exploring new neighborhoods — you can always use a spare phone in case yours loses power, right? — but the game also rewards those who play together.
Some of the rarest creatures in “Pokémon Go” will only appear if more than one person is roaming around a given area
Stay alert late at night
Or don’t play at all long after the sun goes down. Some of the game’s most notorious incidents have occurred late at night.
Stay in well-lit places where people congregate
If you must play at night, use common sense when hunting for Pokémon or checking into Pokéstops.
Pokémon tend to appear in places where people congregate, so the creatures shouldn’t materialize in poorly lit or sparsely populated areas. Businesses are usually tagged as Pokéstops, so why not stay in one place and grab a meal or a drink while you play?
Don’t bike/skateboard/drive and play
Remember that you will be putting yourself and others if you are using the phone and not concentrating while driving. Not to mention, there is a hefty fine too.
Watch where you’re going
Although the game uses a virtual map where players can track Pokémon throughout real-world locations, it’s not necessary to constantly watch the screen.
“Pokémon Go” has a vibration function that makes it so your smartphone rumbles when a creature appears. If this feature is on, it’s easy enough to activate the app, stick the phone in a pocket and wait for the vibration.
Don’t trespass
Some Pokémon “pets” and Pokéstops are in private residence as well businesses, clubs etc. Remember trespassing is against the law, and you do not want to be incriminated because of a game.
Make sure you have fun playing the game, but always make sure you stay safe at all times.
