Two police services in the GTA are warning the public about a game played by school students involving replica firearms.
York Regional Police and Halton Regional Police have both issued warnings, saying officers have seen a resurgence of the game in recent weeks.
Members of York Regional Police say the game involves students competing to “eliminate” other players using water guns or other replica firearms, such as Nerf-style toys, according to a press release Thursday.
Police are worried that the toys used can replicate real firearms, alarming residents who then contact police.
“Police respond to weapons calls and are required to make quick decisions regarding whether a weapon is real, a toy or a replica. This could have significant consequences,” the service said in the news release.
“The community should be aware that when police respond to any call involving a firearm, it is treated as legitimate until an investigation determines otherwise.”
Halton Regional Police Service issued a similar warning on April 14, discouraging participation in the game.
“To ensure public safety and reduce the risk of a dangerous or unnecessary interaction with police, Halton Regional Police strongly discourage youth from participating in this game.”
