What is ‘Assassins Game,’ and why Halton police are warning parents about it

A Halton Regional Police logo is shown on a vehicle in Oakville, Ont., Wednesday, Jan.18, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Richard Buchan

Halton Regional Police are urging students not to participate in the “Assassins Game” and are warning parents about the dangers of the annual event.

In a news release, police said elementary and high school students in Halton Region have been playing the game each spring for several years now, and it involves them “hunting” or “assassinating” one another using water guns or Nerf-style toys.

The game, police said, can occur in a variety of places during both daytime and evening hours.

Police are concerned that some items used in the game in recent years have resembled real firearms, which could alarm residents unaware of the game and prompt them to call 911.

“This can cause fear in the public and force a heightened emergency response from police,” the news release read.

“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.”

Police are asking parents and guardians to speak with their children about the risks associated with the game.