Pennsylvania State Police warn the public that there could be “creepy clown” sightings.

Last year, people in 16 states, including Pennsylvania, reported seeing clowns stalking or menacing people. Nearly a dozen arrests were made in Georgia, Alabama and Virginia for clown stunts or false reports.

In a bulletin released last month, state police warned there could be more creepy clown sightings this year, in part because of the movie “It,” in which a clown stalks children.

Residents are advised not to panic if they see creepy-looking clowns. They can report suspicious activity to the toll-free terrorism tip line, 888-292-1919, or email tips@pa.gov.

State police also have a “See Something, Send Something” smart phone application that allows people to send photographs or notes to the Pennsylvania Criminal Intelligence Center. The application is free for iPhone and Android users.