"A few tips on raids I'd like to discuss. (also, playing during monsoons)"

#PokemonGO: Having hosted events at least once a month since the start of the game and now every weekend, after legendary Pokemon were released, there are some things I'd like to mention, which could be useful -For The HostsIt is always best to create a Facebook event if you intend to get as many people as you can. Update it with the time, place and exact purpose of the event (ex - if you only intend to raid Suicune and no other Pokemon) Also mention your Discord/WhatsApp/Line/Telgram link, so they can be redirected and all discussions happen there. I prefer Discord over the rest. It is a good idea to ask everyone to reach 15 mins prior.Have a second host if you intend to walk from place to place instead of driving, preferably from another team. One walks at the front and the other at the back. This helps if there's any confusion or if any authority asks what this is about.This can be done before starting your walk or once you reach the gym. Give priorities and sort. As a group of 20, I first select those who haven't caught that Pokemon yet, then the others. I usually don't bother with spoofers. It would be unfair if someone traveled all the way to your event only to be kept out by someone sitting comfortably at home. As for sorting, it could be as easy as separating team wise with the minority divided equally or can be done with an equal distribution of levels. Team based private groups work best.If there's any dispute between the participants, be there to settle it peacefully. Also attend to those who are facing problems and errors in game. Make sure no one is left behind (unless the person is cool with it.)Once the raid is over, make sure you suggest a comfortable surrounding for your participants to stand at, so they can catch the Pokemon without being disturbed by anyone else.Once you decide the event is over, make sure you note to see if everyone is present. If they are comfortable, ask them to leave in groups if they are traveling to the same place. Helps ensure everyone reaches home safe.I noticed that a lot of people feel uncomfortable to approach us first time, or if they happen to randomly cross paths with us. That is why we plan to come up with Trainer Cards they can clip onto their bags or outfit. This helps identifying others that play and helps wither away the awkwardness.For the trainersDo not haste to do a raid. There will always be one or the other who faces a problem with their game/device/connection. Try your best not to get frustrated and certainly don't vent out your anger at anyone. Instead, if you can help them, that's the best self help you'll do to yourself.Now yes, I understand that the "Don't press Okay after catching" is an urban myth. Doesn't work. At all. But explaining it to someone else might not be as smooth. We almost take it as a religious view. If someone thinks that will benefit them, we say, "cool bro, no problems" and wait. Doesn't hurt to not press one button. You will realize that people will learn it themselves and stop. Nowadays we only have newcomers talking about it. No one else bothers about it otherwise.Make sure you always leave home with everything you'd need - right outfit and footwear, data, phone and battery pack. I also suggest to get a bottle of water sometimes.Now for the monsoon, it is best if you can find a shade during the raids. In Mumbai, it can rain a lot and it makes it harder. The best thing that could happen to you is that you find a nice shelter to host everyone for a while. (under a shop, inside a cafe, etc) If your phone is water resistant, then it's no issues. But if not, try not to use plastic casings. It makes it hard for you to throw a ball well. We have umbrellas with us and we hold it for the other person while that person catches. After that, the favor is returned and all of us can enjoy catching the Pokemon without having to hold our umbrella in a downpour.Please don't create a nuisance for others and definitely don't block roads, footpaths and parks. We lean against the wall usually and that works best for us. If a police authority asks what's happening, be polite to answer/explain or inform the host.Don't vent out your frustration or mock others at the event, especially if you do not know the person. Overall, play safe and look out for others.FootnoteNow I know events will be different for everyone, but I thought I'd mention this here. If it helps your community, I'd be really happy. If not, you could simply ignore this post.Play safe! via /r/TheSilphRoad http://ift.tt/2xJrbFz