Pokemon Go players warned to follow rules at state parks

Be aware of your surroundings

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 16, 2016) — Players of the popular new Pokemon Go, which encourages people to get out and explore the region using a smartphone app to collect the virtual creatures, are being warned to be aware of their surroundings at Kentucky State Parks. Two men in California fell off a cliff Thursday while playing.

Visitors are welcome to play the game at state parks and historic sites, but they should “obey a few basic rules for safety,” said state park naturalist Robert Myers.

His suggestions are:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially along trails, roadways, cliffs, streams and lakes.
• Stay on hiking trails; do not wander off trails.
  Be aware of park hours. Some parks close at night.
• Do not enter private campsites or property.
• Look up and enjoy some of the great natural and historical surroundings at state parks.
• You may get to see some real wildlife like a bird or deer.

Pokemon hunters have reported success at Waveland State Historic Site in Lexington, John James Audubon State Park in Henderson and Green River Lake State Park near Campbellsville. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park in Prestonsburg is planning to have organized hunts for guests during the summer.