Horry Electric Cooperative and other utilities are reminding players of Pokémon Go to STAY AWAY from electric substations, power plants and other electric equipment. The new smartphone-based augmented reality game sends players to real world places to “catch” Pokémon.
Pokémon characters turn up everywhere—from grocery stores to hospitals. But they’re also appearing at electric substations, drawing players into extremely dangerous, life threatening situations.
“Electric utilities cannot control where the Pokémon appears and players should make sure they catch their Pokémon from a safe distance,” said Penelope Hinson, spokesperson for Horry Electric. “Any game or activity that distracts people from the possible dangers around them and potentially brings them in proximity to our electric equipment and lines is a major concern for all of us.”
Remember these important electrical safety tips from Horry Electric as you try to #CatchEmAll:
- Never touch electric equipment, including transformers and power lines.
- Never touch a downed power line. Assume all lines are energized and dangerous.
- Never climb utility poles.
- Never enter an electric substation.