Chief James M. Spinney
2 Olde North Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
For Immediate Release
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Chelmsford Police Urge Residents to Be Safe While Playing Pokémon Go
CHELMSFORD — As more people play the popular Pokémon Go app, Chief James M. Spinney and the Chelmsford Police Department ask that residents remember to always put their safety first and be respectful of where and when they are playing the game.
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.
The Chelmsford Police Department has responded to multiple calls of suspicious persons, who were determined to be playing Pokémon Go. While no serious injuries have been reported in Chelmsford as a result of the game, Chelmsford Police urge those playing to always be aware of their surroundings and play with others whenever possible.
- 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.
- 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, set guidelines for children. Limit where they can go in your neighborhood and remind them to never interact or go anywhere with strangers.
“While this game is great way for people to get out and be more active, it has also resulted in numerous public safety issues,” Chief Spinney said. “Please, if you choose to download and play this game, be mindful of your surroundings and never put yourself or others in danger for the sake of the game.”
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