Five Ways to Stay Safe While Playing Pokémon GO

Five safety tips for when you're playing Pokémon GO.

Pokémon GO is an augmented reality geolocation based game where kids and adults venture out to catch virtual monsters called Pokémon. This game has quickly moved to the top of the mobile phone gaming market and is currently the most downloaded game in Google Play and iOS app stores. But why are we talking about it?

• To play the game you walk around your neighborhood, local park, beach, or mall and try to catch Pokémon.
• It’s great exercise for the whole family and a great way to socialize with friends or even meet new people.

Though fun and exciting, the game can be distracting. We want to help you be safe while you’re out there trying to “catch ’em all” on Pokémon GO or any similar game. Consider these safety tips to help keep you and your friends safe while playing or if a seizure happens while playing.

Safety Tips

1. Take water with you. It can get pretty hot during the summer and staying hydrated is important.
2. Play with friends. This is key for anyone who’s not seizure free or has an increased risk of seizures. There is always safety in numbers and the game is more fun when you and your friends can take down that team Valor gym (go team Mystic). If a seizure does occur while you’re out, you’ll have someone to help you.
3. Take a rest at PokéStops or Gyms. Many Gyms and PokéStops are in shops or restaurants. While resting at a PokéStop, wait for the stop to refresh a few times to get some loot or use a lure to attract some Pokémon before heading out again.
4. Take a first aid / seizure kit and teach your friends proper seizure first aid. You’re out having a great time with friends or family, but you trip and fall or bump into a wall (like I have) trying to track down a Pokémon. If you have seizures, you may be at greater risk for injury.
   • Put your seizure response or rescue plan in the kit along with any rescue treatment that’s been prescribed to you. For example, carry your VNS magnet (if you have a VNS) or a rescue medicine.
   • Put in a change of clothes if you may need it or something soft to lie down on if you need a rest after a seizure.
   • Visit epilepsy.com’s Seizure First Aid section before you start your adventure so you know what you want to say. Give your team a one-page sheet or graphic on seizure first aid or carry it in your first aid / seizure kit.
5. Be aware of where you are. It’s easy to get caught up in the game. Remember to pay attention to where you are, the risks around you, and common safety hazards like things you could trip over. This tip applies whenever you use any type of mobile device or game!
   • Look up and be aware of the sidewalk and where you are.
   • Stay on the inside of the sidewalk in case of a fall or trip and always use crosswalks.
   • Walk in parks, footpaths, or enclosed areas instead of sidewalks of busy streets.

So, if you’re a Pokémon fan, stay safe and get some exercise while having fun catching those monsters. Just use your common sense and consider what extra steps you should take.

Have fun out there!