Going Crazy for Pokémon GO? Great — but Be Safe

With more than 15 million downloads according to some estimates, Pokémon Go continues to take the world by storm. I contributed a Huffington Post blog post explaining why I think the game is so wildly popular, bringing together a love for technology and the outdoors.

Before you read it, though, remember that with any outdoor activity, it’s important to think safety. If you set out in search of Pokémon, do so responsibly. Whether you are in a remote area with varied terrain, in an urban environment with heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic, or anywhere in between, be aware of your surroundings. Remember not to trespass, keep an eye out for hazards and stay vigilant of others who may be looking to take advantage of those who are engrossed in the game. If a situation doesn’t feel safe, go with your gut and walk away. While Pokémon Go may be fun and tough to put down, no game is worth jeopardizing your safety over.

To learn about how to take advantage of Pokémon Go for your local Scouting efforts, check out this Scouting Wire post.

I’d love to hear about how you’re embracing the game and any tips you have for councils to make the most of the trend. Please take a minute to tell me about it in the comments.

Good luck — and remember to be safe when Pokémon hunting.

Mike