Nerf Wars are back. Here’s why the game has the Gig Harbor Police Department worried
It’s Nerf War season, and that has the Gig Harbor Police Department worried.
Teams of Gig Harbor-area high school students try to hit each other with foam bullets each year for prize money.
“We do not condone or welcome this activity,” the police department posted on social media Thursday night.
Students aren’t supposed to target each other when they’re in their homes, at work and at school, the post said, and some local businesses also prohibit the game on their premises.
“While some find it harmless fun, we see potential danger,” the police department explained. “Often, players will stalk other teams, hide outside their houses, wait for them outside their workplaces, and chase each other in vehicles. We have had reports of prowlers, reckless driving, and car accidents.”
Police want teens to consider something like laser tag, instead, in a safe place.
“Our fear is that a player would be mistaken for a prowler and frighten someone into taking action that may put the teen in danger,” the post said. “We also want to keep our roadways safe for all.”
Asked if Peninsula School District officials would like to comment, spokesperson Danielle Chastaine sent the Gateway a statement from the district Friday.
“The Peninsula School District is aware that some of our high school students are participating in the Nerf War game,” the statement said. “This is not a PSD sanctioned activity, and is prohibited on our schools’ campuses. We urge our students and their families to consider the risks involved by participating. The safety of our students is our first priority.”
