How to Play Pokemon Go Safely: These Safety Tips Will Add to Your Gaming Fun

Fullerton, CA — If you've downloaded Pokemon Go — now known as PG — on your smartphone in recent days and are beginning your foray into community-based "augmented reality" games, safety is one of the things you should think about, according to Fullerton Police Department public information officer Kathryn Hamel.

"Respect private property if you are gaming," she said in interview. "That is a primary thing. Also, don't PG and drive, as that is still distracted driving. Be aware of your intersections, and don't bury your head in your phone."

READ: These Marines Caught a Criminal while Playing Pokemon Go -- Read How!

This GPS-enabled game requires players to get out into the community to explore landmarks, public places and area neighborhoods, in search of hidden creatures visible only through your mobile's camera.

Here are his 10 tips to stay safe while playing.

• Get up and get out! Pokemon Go is an "Augmented Reality Game" designed to show a world within a world. The animated GPS map shows walking paths and monuments in your area. The better you get, rollerblading and biking is also a great way to get around and catch 'em all.
• Avoid walking with your eyes fixated on your mobile device. If you are totally focused on where you are walking, you could trip, fall and break your device. Then all of the Bulbasaurs and Rattatas will keep running free. If you are in a car, be sure the player is NOT the person who is driving.
• Never play alone. If you're traveling in an unfamiliar area, let someone know where you will be.
• People may think you're a suspicious person. There have been notable stories where players had the police called on them because they were in a public place at odd hours.
• Don't let a stranger within arm's reach. Personal space is important, and staying out of reach of strangers is the best way to avoid being abducted. Stop playing if someone speaks to you whom you do not know.
• Do pay attention and be respectful if stopped by police. If the police stop you, calmly explain you're playing a game. Be respectful. Listen. And mind your manners.
• Know park hours. Most city parks are sunup to sundown. You can get cited by local authorities, and most communities have park hours posted near the entrance. NOTE: After dark, the authorities will be called if you are being loud in neighborhoods.
• It's just a game. Pokemon Go is designed for playing in teams and interacting with other players. Look for groups of trusted individuals to play with, but it is just a game. Battles are against your buddies. If your house is improperly tagged as a game location, be sure and report it to Pokemon Go through its support line.
• Bring a friend. Pokemon Go is designed as a social game, and you'll end up being safer and having more fun in the long run when you play with friends. If children are playing, an adult should be present as a "spotter" to keep eyes out for anyone suspicious nearby, looking to target distracted game players. Same goes for teenagers. Make sure someone is looking out for the others.
• Manage your battery life. Your phone is your primary communication device in the community. Be sure to have a phone charger/charging cord/extra battery charger either with you or stored in your vehicle. Bring a portable battery charger and make sure to periodically charge it and have it handy during times of extended gameplay. Solar-powered backpacks, such as those by BirkSun, are ideal for gamers on the go during the day.

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Photo Courtesy Javier Socha and Seth Ortega