As you may be aware, a new game has recently launched in
the UK called Pokémon Go. It uses augmented reality to
display Pokémon characters in real places, which are visible
using a phone or tablet's camera.
Children play the game by following a map on their phones to
find these characters. Whilst the idea is a great concept, the
game has many potential dangers which we feel you need to
be aware of, should your child play the game over summer.
The game can potentially lead children to unfamiliar places,
creating physical risks and also potentially meeting people
they do not know.
If your child is playing this game, we have put together a few
ideas for parents to speak to your child about:
•    Be cautious about alerting strangers to where you will be
in future. Be careful where you leave ‘beacons’
•    Always be cautious when going to a ‘beacon’ as anyone
can set one up, including people you do not know.
•    Always pay attention to your surroundings and what is
going on around you. (Head-in-phone syndrome!)
•
Do not just stare at your phone. Make sure you look
around and know who is near you.
•    Where possible, play with friends and stay in a group
•    Avoid playing near roads
•    Play at home – You can use lures to attract Pokémon to
you
•    Keep your device safe – You can still play with your
phone out of sight, it will vibrate when a Pokémon is near
•
Keep an eye on your battery life as the game drains
your phone.
•
Always let your adult know where you are going to be
•
Be mindful that the app has ‘in –app’ purchases
Remember, this app can be great fun but as with all online
games and apps esafety must be a priority. There is no app to
keep your child safe, please speak to you child.