WEC reminds Pokémon Go players to stay safe around electricity
Matt BosterViewed: 1915
Posted by: Matt Boster
Date: Jul 18 2016 9:23 PM
HARTFORD, Alabama — The popularity of the augmented reality game Pokémon Go has many people exploring their neighborhood looking for new creatures to catch, but Wiregrass Electric Cooperative would like to remind players that they should stay away from power lines, transformers and substations at all times while playing the game.
The new mobile game allows players to use their smartphone to explore environments to capture, train and battle virtual Pokémon. It uses geocaching to generate Pokémon in specific locations in the real world that can be seen on the user’s phone.
Unfortunately, WEC has no control over the locations where Pokémon appear in the game. Some websites report that “electric type” Pokémon can be found near electrical sites, so it is important that players only attempt to catch them at a safe distance.
WEC encourages parents to talk to their children about how to be safe around electricity. Some important safety tips to remember are:
Stay away from power lines, transformers, substations and electrical work sites.
Never jump on, sit on, kick or stick anything inside a transformer, including pad mount transformers.
Do not climb power poles or throw things into power lines.
Stay away from power lines that have fallen because they can still be energized.
Power lines near trees also pose a danger; exercise caution and check for power lines before climbing a trees.
WEC urges all of our members to keep their safety in mind at all times while playing Pokémon Go. For more tips and information on electrical safety, visit www.wiregrass.coop.
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