Pokémon Go has taken
over the world - the world of both child and adult alike! So what you ask?

Police departments and
safety agencies are warning players of Pokémon Go to stay safe and alert as
hysteria over the popular mobile game swells.

The game, which
launched last week for iPhones and Android devices, is based on the classic cartoon
and video game series. Players use a GPS map to locate cartoon creatures called
Pokémon. When a character is tapped, the app launches the smartphone's camera
for a mini-game where the Pokémon appear to be moving in the real world.

The game requires players
to move and pay attention to the touchscreen as they seek out Pokémon,
prompting agencies to urge players to stay aware of their surroundings and be
careful.

Reports of close calls associated
with playing Pokémon Go are already coming in from the US where the National
Safety Council is urging gamers to consider safety over their scores - before a
life is lost.

Along with pedestrians
distracted by their quest to find that rare Pokémon, agencies are also warning
about distracted driving resulting from playing the game where the consequences
will be even more serious.

While the game is no
doubt intended to have a fun application, there can be tragic
real-world consequences if you’re playing it while driving or while crossing
the street. While we haven't seen any evidence of this in SA impacting on
drivers, it is only a matter of time before some driver is tempted.

Till next time - don't
be tempted, don't POKE and drive.

Eugene Herbert