I recently wrote a news story about Pokémon GO players here in Effingham. You probably have noticed them hanging out around landmarks, by the dozens, and maybe doing some trash-talking to one another. That’s okay, it’s all part of the friendly competition the game brings. Think of it like this. People are suddenly taking an interest in their local landmarks and getting are out of the house during the warm weather. That’s a good thing in my opinion.
Plus, the downtown Effingham Square is known to be a hot spot for a certain types of Pokémon online, meaning that it could draw in people from the surrounding area who will be wanting to buy things, like drinks to stay hydrated, sunscreen, or lunch. Yay! Commerce! Lots of players will make a day of visiting a certain place to hunt Pokémon. Why not beautiful Effingham? They get to see lovely, historical landmarks, enjoy Pokémon GO, and spend money at great area businesses. Young people, families, and almost every other demographic, play this game and all of them can enjoy what the community has to offer to visitors.
With the game’s popularity, the Better Business Bureau has released some safety guidelines for playing Pokémon GO, here are some highlights. The full article is linked here!
Of course, with the additional foot traffic there’s going safety issues to be cognizant of. Naturally, Pokémon GO players should take responsibility for their own safety by being aware of their surroundings (roads, private property ect.). The game says so whenever it gets turned on. But, I believe that public safety is everyone’s job. So let’s do each other a favor and watch out for one another. If you see someone doing something dangerous and not paying attention, give them a courteous heads up. Motorists should be aware of pedestrians, especially young children, crossing streets.
Also, avoid Pokémon hunting in secluded areas. If you’re planning on hiking some trails or searching somewhere away from well populated areas, use the buddy system. It works for the Boy Scouts. Along with that, bear in mind that the game will drain your phone battery. So make sure to leave enough juice in your phone to call for a ride if you need one! The game has a power saver mode in the settings. Use it! Likewise Pokémon Trainers, stay off private property.
Finally, don’t forget to stay hydrated on these delightfully hot summer days when you’re out hunting Pokémon. Drink plenty of water, eat light, and know the signs of heat-related illness. Coincidentally, you can learn all about that from Effingham Fire Chief Holomy here!
Happy Pokémon hunting! Let’s keep Effingham and the surrounding area safe and welcoming!