Pokemon Go Players Face Safety Risks While Hunting Virtual Creatures
Within days of its release, the new smartphone game Pokemon Go has taken the world by storm. However, players are discovering that the pursuit of digital monsters can come with some dangerous consequences. The augmented reality game, developed by Niantic, has players roam the real world in search of Pokemon to capture and train. But as their eyes remain glued to their smartphone screens, they are increasingly vulnerable to accidents and injuries.
One player, Mike Schultz, found himself in a predicament when he took a spill on his skateboard while searching for Pokemon. Schultz, a 21-year-old communications graduate from Long Island, New York, cut his hand after hitting a crack on the sidewalk. Despite the mishap, he doesn’t blame the creators of the game, admitting that he was solely responsible for not paying enough attention.
Reports are flooding in from around the globe of players encountering various hazardous situations while engrossed in the game. People have been found chasing virtual creatures on car dashboards, at busy intersections, and even inside police stations. Authorities in Darwin, Australia, have issued a plea to players, urging them to refrain from entering the local police station, which coincidentally serves as a Pokestop in the game. Such incidents serve as a reminder that players need to exercise caution and be mindful of their surroundings.
Incidents involving twisted ankles, collisions with inanimate objects, and falls have become commonplace. One player, Kyrie Tompkins, a 22-year-old web designer, twisted her ankle and fell into a hole while exploring downtown Waterville, Maine. She vividly recalls how she became engrossed in her screen when her phone vibrated, signaling the presence of a nearby Pokemon.
While the safety risks associated with the game are a cause for concern, there are some positive aspects as well. Pokemon Go has inadvertently encouraged players to be more physically active as they explore their surroundings to catch Pokemon. It has also led to unexpected encounters and social connections as players converge on local landmarks transformed into Pokestops by the game.
Lindsay Plunkett, a 23-year-old waitress from Asheville, North Carolina, shared her own experience of bruised shins and rainy adventures with her boyfriend while hunting for Pokemon. However, she remains enthusiastic, looking forward to an upcoming cross-country trip to California where she hopes to encounter more Pokestops and Pokemon.
Despite the potential for accidents, the game incorporates historical landmarks, introducing players to the significance of these locations. Players can learn about the history and culture of their surroundings as they immerse themselves in the game.
However, it is crucial for players to exercise responsible behavior while playing Pokemon Go. Being aware of one’s surroundings, refraining from engaging in risky behavior, and taking appropriate safety precautions are essential. The game’s creators bear some responsibility for raising awareness of these concerns and promoting safe gameplay. By striking a balance between fun and safety, players can fully enjoy the game without compromising their wellbeing.
In conclusion, the popularity of Pokemon Go has brought with it a host of safety concerns. Players must remain vigilant and exercise caution while playing in order to avoid unnecessary accidents and injuries. The game’s interactive nature allows players to engage with their surroundings and discover new landmarks, but it is important to strike a balance between enjoyment and personal safety. So, when venturing out to catch Pokemon, stay alert, and remember that safety should always come first.
