In case you’re been living under a rock (or an Onix if you know what I mean), you would know about the latest Pokemon game that has released in Australia, New Zealand and US. Pokemon GO has yet to reach our shores but it’s slated for release some time this month, and there’s been a significant amount of buzz surrounding it.
From finding a dead body, getting injured, and getting fired due to Pokemon GO, we think it’s best to share some safety tips while your child earns the title of “Pokemon Master”.
#1 Don’t go out alone at night
It’s more comfortable to walk around during the cool evenings hunting for Pokemons, but your child should never go out alone at night. Make it a family activity and turn Pokemon hunting into a regular evening walk, or just join in the fun and download Pokemon GO too.
#2 Know the area you’re venturing into
Although Singapore is relatively safe, danger might still lurk in a corner. You’ll never know if your child ends up getting lost, or maybe even stuck on hazardous terrains. It’s best to stick to well-populated areas and walkways.
#3 Mind the roads (and trees)
Part of the appeal of Pokemon GO is its Augmented Reality (AG) gameplay, which integrates the real world with the game. It’s also a game which requires a lot of attention on the phone while you traverse. As it is, people often stop paying attention to their environment when they’re texting – with the added urgency to catch a Pokemon before it disappears, even less attention is focused on their surroundings. Emphasize on safety first, especially when crossing the roads. The Pikachu across the street can wait.
#4 Resist the lure
There is an in-game item which draws Pokemons to your area and there have been reports of robbers who have used this technique to attract unsuspecting players who are looking for Pokemons to their area. If you have to lure more Pokemons, use your own in-game item instead of relying on others.
#5 Stay hydrated
With all that walking and exercising, your child may get dehydrated. More often than not, they would be too engrossed in the game to even notice their thirst. Suggest a drink (or two) or water as a celebration whenever they catch a Pokemon.