Traditional student ‘Water Wars’ prompts police warning
Suspects armed with formidable weapons have been observed throughout the Plymouth-Canton community recently and local police have issued a safety warning regarding the juvenile offenders.
It’s all fairly harmless, however. The “warriors” are targeting senior classmates with huge Super Soaker water guns and even water-filled balloons as ammunition in the annual student Water Wars.
Yep, Water Wars are back in season and somebody or a lot of somebodies are going to get wet. Despite the warnings issued by both Plymouth and Canton police departments along with cautions from school administrators, the games continue. The game involves using water guns for elimination of fellow players and teams. Get wet, you’re gone.
Some of the sneaky attacks in the heat of the game have caused complaints and police warnings regarding trespassing and reckless driving.
While the Plymouth-Canton Educational Park and local law enforcement strictly prohibit Water Wars on school property due to safety concerns, students find off-campus “battlefields” where the senior-led, off-campus game continues. Players can be found sneaking around trees, garages and fellow students’ family homes in pursuit of targets hoping their team is the last standing and the winner of the cash prize. Usually, each player pays a $10 entry fee and at the end of the game, winner (and driest) takes all.
While the games are meant to be fun, police have cautioned about safety risks and have warned players against trespassing on private property, acting suspiciously, or using vehicles recklessly during the pursuit of another team. In 2022, the Water Wars were canceled following safety concerns and complaints. Police have reported complaints from unaware residents who find the teen players on or near their property. The game isn’t limited to Plymouth-Canton and senior students across several counties play the annual game.
Because “Water Wars” involves hiding, sneaking, and approaching others unexpectedly, participants may be perceived as suspicious or even dangerous. Police have received reports of suspicious individuals, potential weapons, and possible trespassing or break-ins during past games.
“These situations can create dangerous conditions, particularly when responding law enforcement officers encounter individuals carrying items that resemble real firearms. Squirt guns—especially those that are altered or designed to look realistic—can easily be mistaken for actual weapons, which could lead to serious or tragic consequences,” school district administrators cautioned in a communication to parents.
Players have been advised not to trespass on private property, avoid wearing masks, hiding on or near homes or entering businesses while participating in the games. Players are also warned not to carry or display squirt guns or airsoft-style devices in public, particularly those that resemble real firearms.
Residents are cautioned to be aware of the ongoing games and the resultant consequences they present to the public. One could get very, very wet.
