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By AZBW 

Pokémon Go and Boating: Three Tips from BoatUS

 

August 1, 2016



The reality-game-meets-exercise app currently taking the nation by storm, "Pokémon Go," now has 21 million users every day – reportedly the most successful mobile game ever in the US.

The game features characters called Pokémon that players capture in the real world using a combination of GPS and augmented reality. That also means that Pokémon-mania has also come to the water and with it, BoatUS, the national boating advocacy, services and safety group, has three tips for playing Pokémon Go while boating:

 

GO FOR IT -- A Pokémon Go "gym" is located next to the iconic BoatUS Buoy at the recreational boating association's national headquarters in Alexandria, Va.

1. Be aware: The US Coast Guard reports "Operator Inattention" as one of the five main primary contributing factors in accidents. When searching for a "water type" Pokémon such as "Magikarp" on a waterway, let the first mate or friend handle the cell phone while the captain keeps a safe lookout.

2. Watch cell phone battery use: Users report the game eats up a smartphone's battery charge. With many recreational boaters today relying on their cell phones for communication, it would be wise to bring along a spare charger, or use battery saving mode. BoatUS also reminds boaters that only a VHF radio can summon emergency help from the closest rescuers, ensuring the fastest response.

3. Have fun: The BoatUS National Headquarters in Alexandria, Va,. offers a Pokémon "gym" located next to the iconic BoatUS Buoy at 880 S. Pickett Street. At lunch, some BoatUS employees can be seen playing the game.

 

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