You may not have realized that there are certain safety precautions when it comes to virtual reality games and phone applications, but it is important to keep these practices in mind!

Did you know there’s a website dedicated to tracking injuries and deaths that have been associated with the augmented reality phone application Pokémon Go?  To date, the site’s statistics report 12 deaths and 51 injuries, and while you might not have given much thought to the “safety” associated with the game in the past, it really is something to consider regarding the wellbeing of your children, your personal security, and yourself.

While it might be fun, no phone application or other distraction is worth risking your safety. In order to protect yourself and your loved ones who are enamored by the latest trend of phone interaction, keep these safety precautions in mind:

 1. Friends don’t let friends Pokémon and drive

The National Safety Council lists cellphones as the main culprit for more than 1.6 million accidents each year. And while we hope that this one would be more obvious, there have been numerous fender benders caused by drivers playing phone applications and using their devices behind the wheel.

Most of us would like to avoid car accidents as much as possible. If you’re like us, and are one of those people who would like to keep their vehicle in one piece, it’s best to put down the phone, put down all devices, and to give your undivided attention to the road in which you are traveling down.

 2. Always be aware of your surroundings

If you’ve ever taken the time to watch a Pokémon Go player in public, you might understand why they could be a target for criminals—the game often entrances its players so much so that their attention is completely centered on their phone screen.  Pay attention; don’t chase a Pokémon into a neighborhood or area you wouldn’t ordinarily feel safe in, and as always, be mindful of the people crossing your path.

Whether or not it has to do with the game, another phone app, or something else entirely, when you’re consciousness is locked into your phone, you look like an injured gazelle to a hungry predator. Always be conscious of your surroundings and where it is, exactly, that you are going.

 3. Watch your step

On July 13th, 2016, two Pokémon players were so into their game that they accidentally walked off a cliff! So, keep looking up from your phone. Always pay attention to the direction that you are traveling—whether by car or foot, in order to avoid injury!

 4. Follow the Golden Rule

If you’re like most people, you’d rather not have a random person, entranced by a game, chasing imaginary prizes into your back yard, or encroaching in any way on your privacy and life.  In some circumstances, doing so could result in personal property disruption insurance claims and lawsuits.

Be mindful of other’s properties, boundaries, and personal spaces.

It may not be something that you originally considered, but it’s important to realize and consider the possible safety threats that are posed by something as seemingly innocent as a phone application. When it comes down to it, safety is more important than anything else and should never be compromised—even if that means missing out on a Pokémon or two.

At Avante Insurance, you’re safety, wellbeing, and protection is our number one priority! Get in touch with us today to learn about our insurance solutions and all of the ways that Avante has your back!