Michael J. d’Entremont
Chief of Police
600 High St.
Dedham, MA 02026
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Dedham Police Caution Residents to be Safe While Playing Pokémon Go
DEDHAM — Chief Michael d’Entremont and the Dedham Police Department would like to remind residents to please practice the following safety tips while playing Pokémon Go.
The increasingly popular smartphone app allows users to collect Pokémon characters in a simulated virtual world — tapping into the device’s GPS system to track where players are throughout the day. To catch Pokémon, users travel to different spots, locating creatures as they move up and down streets, through buildings and into their homes.
While no accidents or issues have been reported in Dedham as a result of Pokémon Go, numerous incidents have been reported both locally and nationwide. Chief d’Entremont asks that citizens remember to always be aware of their surroundings and to be respectful of others while playing.
• Stay alert. Keep your eyes on the road and off your mobile screen when walking around, especially in areas where you need to cross the street or where there is heavy traffic flow.
• Do not use the game while operating a motor vehicle. Keep the app closed while behind the wheel. Pull over and park your vehicle once you’ve reached your destination and plan your route ahead of time if the game requires you to walk to another location.
• Let others know where you’re going. If you’re walking to an unfamiliar area, tell a friend or family member your plans.
• Travel in groups with friends or family members while playing the game. There is safety in numbers.
• Be visible. Stay in areas where you can be seen and where others can see you. Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Be respectful. Do not loiter in front of homes or businesses. If in a large group, be aware of the time of day or night and keep noise at an appropriate volume.
• Stay off private property and away from construction zones, as well as other areas where public access is prohibited.
• Parents should set guidelines for children. Limit where they can go in your neighborhood and remind them to never interact or go anywhere with strangers.
“While the game encourages users to spend more time outside and in their communities, we caution everyone to be aware of their surroundings,” Chief d’Entremont said. “Always watch where you’re going, let people know where you are, and travel in groups when you can.”
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