Police are urging users of a popular app to stay safe while playing, just hours after it was officially released in the UK.



Pokemon Go encourages gamers to roam the real world in search of virtual characters that appear on their device.

Officers are warning against playing while driving or walking around in a daze.

Lancashire police posted this advice to their social media:

Here are our top-tips to keep safe whilst playing:

1.) Let someone know where you're going, and when to expect you back. Go in groups whenever possible.

2.) Always stay alert to what, and who is around you.

3.) Don't trespass on private land or put yourself and others at risk whilst playing - avoid potentially dangerous locations that could make you vulnerable to injury or becoming a victim of crime:

- Never enter any body of water. Pokémon do not appear beyond the safety of the shoreline.
- Don't enter derelict structures, unlit footpaths or alleyways.

4.) Respect the wishes of local residents and businesses that aren't happy to have been automatically selected to be local Pokéstops or Gyms, and in any case be especially aware of other people's intentions in these areas.

5.) One for the adults - DON'T play Pokémon GO and drive!

6.) The app quickly drains battery life, so be sure to utilise the "battery saver" option, take a charging pack with you and always reserve enough power to make emergency calls.

7.) Download Google Maps over WiFi beforehand to use in 'Offline Mode' to avoid surprise bills from your mobile provider.

It's important that parents/guardians/teachers and friends/family of players understand the game due to its popularity and the danger it COULD pose to loved ones. There were a few concerned comments the other day about the potential risk of younger players being invited into people's houses to catch Pokémon. The attached screenshot shows the 'range' at which Pokémon will appear around the player (large circle) on a typical terraced street - there should be absolutely no need for players to enter any building in order to catch Pokémon; so please make younger players aware!

Enjoy Safely and Happy Hunting!

PC Hesketh & Officer Jenny