ST. LOUIS PARK, MN — Nerf Wars; it's become a rite of spring for many high school students, along with prom, final exams and graduation. But the St. Louis Park police chief wants students and parents to know that Nerf Wars can "quickly become a dangerous game."

If your student decides to play Nerf Wars, police say they should follow these tips:

• Never play the game in or near a moving vehicle, whether as a driver or a passenger, including shooting from a vehicle. A number of incidents have been reported in the past few years of accidents, injuries and even deaths of students in vehicles playing the game. Rowdy and aggressive behavior has no place in or around a vehicle.

• Use caution when engaging in Nerf Wars on public property or in neighborhoods. Never enter a private home without permission. Be respectful of others who are using public spaces such as parks.

• Stick to using brightly colored Nerf guns that are obviously not real firearms. Don't use replica guns in public places.

• Don't add other materials to projectiles in the Nerf guns. Stick to the provided spongy projectiles that won't cause serious injury. Avoid aiming for the face to avoid eye injury.

• If you encounter police while in possession of a Nerf-type gun, put it down immediately and follow the officers' instructions. In most cases, youth may be asked for their name and/or identification and released if it is confirmed that no harmful or unlawful activity has taken place.