Pokémon trainers urged to stay safe

Pokémon trainers urged to stay safe

Public service announcements have been coming out in droves after last week's release of popular gaming app Pokémon Go.

Government organisations like New Zealand Police, Auckland Transport and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) have all felt it necessary to advise the public to be safe in their quest to catch 'em all.

"As Pokémania sweeps across the country so does the likelihood of injury. Whilst minor injuries have already been reported overseas, ACC is yet to receive any Zubat, Pikachu or other Pokémon-related claims, and we don't want you to be the first," said ACC in a statement.

Their advice to trainers is as follows:

Even nudity's come up as part of the issue.

"It's very cold outside, so we just suggest you dress appropriately because hypothermia is certainly going to contribute to some injuries," says ACC spokesperson Stephanie Melville.

Despite the dangers, it doesn't mean ACC disapproves of the game.

"It's getting them out of the bedrooms, where they turn into mushrooms, it's getting them outdoors and playing as teams, it's getting them some exercise," Ms Melville says.

"And people are having fun - isn't that just fantastic?"

Meanwhile, Auckland Transport wants people to remember to stay safe around trains, even if they spot a Pidgey near the tracks.

And, New Zealand Police asks the community to respect other people and their property, and watch out for real world hazards while hunting for rare virtual creatures.

"Never use your phone while driving; don't step into the road without looking; watch out for others  particularly if they've got their noses buried in their phones; be aware of what's happening around you; and respect other people and their property," NZ Police posted to Facebook.

This all to the delight of the app's developers - "Even the police are tweeting about #PokemonGO".

Newshub.