Pokémon Go Safety Tips

Pokémon GO is a virtual reality mobile application which allows players to actively hunt and capture Pokémon, collect rare items (such as eggs) and battle strangers at central locations to become gym leaders. Although Pokémon GO is a game, there have been several instances where individuals playing Pokémon GO were placed in extreme danger and even killed. Below are some basic safety tips and lessons learned from some recent news stories to ensure your safety while playing Pokémon GO. 

Basic Safety Tips

1. NEVER play when driving
2. NEVER play when walking on crowded sidewalks or across intersections
3. NEVER play Pokémon GO at night in public places
4. NEVER go down alleys, sides streets, or trespass on private property
5. IF POSSIBLE play in groups
6. ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings. Looking down at your phone makes you an easy target.
7. IF you find yourself in a crowd at Pokéstops or Gyms, be aware of pickpockets.

Recent Incidents

• A 20 year old Massachusetts Man was shot and killed in broad daylight at a California tourist attraction attempting to take over a Gym: http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-san-francisco-shooting-pokemon-go-20160807-snap-story.html
• In one night, five individuals were robbed at gunpoint after chasing a rare Pokémon in a public Oklahoma park: http://www.news9.com/story/32801975/pokemon-go-players-robbed-at-gunpoint-in-bricktown
• Mobs have appeared at Pokéstops, Gyms and in locations where rare Pokémon can be found. Check out this link of a mob chasing a Pokémon in Central Park: https://youtu.be/MLdWbwQJWI0
• A New York man crashed his car into a tree playing Pokémon GO and driving: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/07/14/pokmon-go-player-crashes-his-car-into-tree/87074762/
• A Maine women was arrested for hitting a group of pedestrians with her car while playing Pokémon GO: http://bangordailynews.com/2016/07/25/news/bangor/police-arrest-brewer-woman-accused-of-pokemon-go-related-hit-and-run/