WPD: ‘Guns Down, Water Up’ movement causing ‘safety hazards’

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington Police said a movement to stop youth violence in the area is causing some to complain. They hope some guidelines will help reduce what they call “safety hazards” in the community.

WWAY told you about the movement a week ago. It’s aimed to get folks outside and to have fun with each other in the community, hoping to stop violence.

This morning, WPD issued a news release with some guidelines to help address complaints that have come from “inappropriate actions” of some participants, police said. Here are some guidelines they said they hope folks will follow so there are no issues:

• Stay out of roadways.
• Only engage with individuals who want to participate.
• Only use cool or room temperature water.
• DO NOT use eggs ,solids or harmful liquids.
• DO NOT wet unsuspecting people or vehicles.
• DO NOT wear masks.
• Use water guns that are obviously toys.
• DO NOT use unauthorized water sources.

“We appreciate your assistance in supporting this anti-violence movement, however in order to make it safe for everyone we ask that you abide by the law,” the release said. “Individuals violating the law are subject to arrest.”