By now I am sure that you have heard about Pokemon Go unless you have been off all WiFi living on a deserted island as a hermit, lol. I was not very excited about this new app and “addiction” when I first heard about it. Like all new things moderation and safety are key! I want to take some time to talk to you about some safety tips for Pokemon Go that a friend of mine, Dannah, wrote about to let other parents and players be aware of. You see Dannah allows her son who is 7 years old the opportunity to play with close parental supervision. She is also a computer nerd and plays herself, lol.
I personally have not downloaded Pokemon Go to my phone because I do not have the space with all the apps that I use on a daily basis for work. I am familiar with the creators of the game, Niantic Inc.,since they also created the Field Trip app which I do have on my phone and love because of the rich History that it provides.
1. If you are playing with children, go with them. It’s a game that encourages walking/running. If the children are old enough to have the responsibility to be semi-independent, know where they are Pokemon Going. It’s more fun to play with a group of people you know anyways!
2. Play in areas you are familiar with, where you know your surroundings and the people around you. We allow our children to play while we are at the park or library or while walking around the neighborhood with us.
3. Don’t go to the “major Pokemon stash” at random places posted on a website/Pokemon Go page or blog post. Again, know where you are going. You might want to check with your local library or CVB to see if they are holding a legitimate Pokemon Go event. Our local library will be holding one on August 13!
4. Make sure someone knows what you are doing and where you are going. Always tell your family where you are going! This rule applies to children and adults even for vacation plans but especially if you are going biking, camping, hiking, or canoeing! Make sure to leave an itinerary with someone so they know when to expect you home or when to call for a search & rescue crew!
5. Understand this game will drain your battery AND use up your data! Carry an extended battery or a fast charger if you are out playing Pokemon Go. Don’t be stuck out without a way to call for help.(but that won’t happen because you will be out with a group of people or your family, right!)
6. If it looks suspicious, it is. Don’t do it. Don’t go down a dark path or alley or into an abandoned building. Your health and well-being are much more important then a game! You can catch that Pokemon next time I promise!
7. Stay well hydrated and wear proper attire. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, comfortable clothes and sunscreen. No sense in busting a toe, being too hot, or getting burnt all because of a game!
Glenda Cates says
Great tips and I also do not play and neither does my son. And I actually don’t even know what it is or how it works. And I have no, clue to know. And since none of the neighborhood children ask to play Charlie doesn’t even think about it. But I also learned something from this post I have to check out and it is the Field Trip app.