Hidden Dangers of Pokemon Go?

It’s a fun, popular, seemingly harmless game that’s swept the nation, and the world, since it’s release about a month ago.

In the game, users are urged to “Catch them all,” and are led, by GPS and augmented reality on the app, to different locations where they will be able to find various types of Pokemon, Pokestops where they can get supplies, and “gyms” where they can claim territory and train.

But, despite its cute little creatures and the fact that it’s gotten a generation of couch potatoes out into the world, there are still some dangers surrounding Pokemon Go. And these dangers may affect how you approach home and personal safety.

Unusual Activity:

Pokemon could be hidden anywhere, including around your house. And, while they probably won’t be in your backyard, you may see more people loitering on your front sidewalk or seemingly searching for something near your bushes. Before the introduction of this game, that would have been cause to call the police. Today, though, don’t act too fast. Keep an eye on the folks around your house, but be careful to notice if they have a phone outstretched in front of them. If they do, they are most likely playing the game and are not a threat to you or your home.

If you still feel unsafe, though, be sure to lock up even when you are at home. Simply use your Nightlock Door Barricade to secure or entrances or set your security system. A triggered alarm is just the ticket to keeping game players off your lawn.

False Alarms:

The above point drives home one of the hidden dangers of the game, wasted police time. Seeing kids (or adults!) wandering around your house or place of business can be unnerving, yes. But, knowing that there are people out playing this game and knowing what to look for, can safe the police time and save you embarrassment.

Accidents and Incidents:

When engrossed in the game, players are often apt to stare at their phones for long periods of time, while walking. This, as one might imagine, can lead to unfortunate consequences. Players have been hit by cars, have stepped in holes and have even broken bones. Whether you are a player or an observer, please remain aware of your surroundings. If you notice a player wandering into the road or a dangerous situation, alert them. If you’re a player, stay alert.

This is also where it’s important to be aware of dangers around your home. Yes, if someone is in your yard, they are trespassing, but there’s a fine line between city and personal boundaries. So, it’s always a good idea (just in general) to keep the area are your home clear of debris, eliminate loose branches and make sure the sidewalks in front of your home are clear.

Stranger Danger:

If your kids are out playing, they are joined by thousands, no millions, of other players. Players often interact and in fact, there are meetups and scheduled hunts to encourage this interaction. And that’s great. But, be sure to use common sense and instill that common sense in your children. If something feels off about someone they are playing with, remove them from the situation. Teach them to recognize suspicious behavior and tell them how to get out of dangerous situations.

Also, make sure they carry a charger with them as the game has been known quickly drain phone batteries.

This article isn’t meant to scare players off of Pokemon Go. It’s a great game that is getting hoards of people outside, interacting and exercising. It’s just important, as with anything, to exercise caution and common sense when playing or observing players.