Cell Phones Safety - Are They a Risk ?

Cell phones are everywhere and I believe they are here to stay. With the advent of cellular phones for public use came a whole host of issues that I don't think anyone expected, at least not in the magnitude we are seeing today. There are two kinds of cell phone safety and then there is cell phone etiquette. There is practical cell phone safety, which addresses the safest ways for you to use your cell, and etiquette plays a huge part in this. The other safety concern is that there are some health risks to those who use cellular phones. We will look at each issue in turn and hopefully give people something to ponder.

Cell phones and driving are a big controversy. As a matter of fact many states in the United States are contemplating enacting legislation that would ban the use of cell phones in a car. While I think something has to be done about using cell phones while driving, I don't think it is a practical idea to ban their use altogether in vehicles. I don't know how it would be monitored except to develop technology that would block all numbers while driving except emergency numbers. Until such a thing occurs or people start refraining as much as possible from using a cell phone in their cars we must be extra careful on the road.

Driving safely while using a cell phone is a contradiction I think. There are however, some things you can do to improve your safety and that of others. The most important thing is to learn about your phone and all its features, (i.e. speed dial and redial). Memorize the keypad in the event you need to make a phone call while driving. Learn specifically about the speed dial feature. The numbers you should put on speed dial is your spouse, 911, your job, your child's school, and the number of a close relative that is not your spouse. As it is conversations on the cell phone while driving will take your attention off the road.

If you have to use your cell phone while driving a hands free kit is a good choice. Conversations however, still should be kept to a minimum and where possible you should not talk if you are moving or in a hazardous situation (i.e. icy roads or heavy traffic). A speaker phone kit is available as well as a safety choice. Here again be mindful of when and where you are talking on the cell phone. While you may be able to maintain your attention on the road while using a speakerphone take care to ensure that the conversation is not intense and is as quick as possible.

Place your phone within relatively easy reach so you don't have to fumble for it. You might not be able to get the phone without taking your attention off the road. The safest way to handle calls while you are driving is to let your voice mail pick up the call. You can always call whomever it was that called you. Do not take notes, or look for a phone number while driving. If you absolutely must dial a number while driving punch two or three numbers then look at the road and so on.

Cell phones operate using radio frequencies (RF) to make and receive calls. Government standards call for a low SAR. If it is a high number there is a serious risk of radiation emissions from your phone into your ear. High emissions heat tissue in very much the same manner as a microwave oven does. This essentially cooks the tissue. On the other hand however, low emissions have not been proven to cause any health risks. You can minimize the amount of exposure to radiation by properly using your antenna or not blocking it. If an antenna is blocked it begins to heat up and the radiation only has one place to go your ear. Usually if you hold your phone at the bottom of the phone you probably won't block your antenna.

You can use your cell phone to call for help in the event of an emergency; emergency calls are free. Use your cell phone to be a 'Good Samaritan.' If you see an accident, a car on the side of the road with mechanical trouble, or a crime in progress, call 911. If someone is in danger you can call 911 as well. An example of this follows: while driving across a bridge I noted that a group of kids jumping from the edge of the bridge into the water below. There were sharp rocks below and anything could have happened.

Identity theft is also a serious concern with cellular phones. There is technology available that enables the recording of your frequencies, they are then decoded, and can be programmed into another phone using your information. People have been known to run up astronomical bills using this method. In recent weeks a new device has come on the market that jams cell phone signals rendering cell phones in a radius of just a few miles useless. Be responsible, be safe, and be a considerate cell phone user.

About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes Cell phones Plans His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

---

Mobile Phone Radiation - The Facts & How You Can Protect Yourself With This Simple Technique!

Firstly, it's vital to point out that this short report... Read More

Short Messaging Service (SMS) for Enterprise Messaging

SMS for Enterprise Messaging ? Value added servicesShort message service,... Read More

Calling Cards and Prepaid Phone Cards To Help You Save Money

You can now save quite a bit of money on... Read More

How to Find the Best Cellular Phone Service Deal

Finding the best cellular phone service deal can seem as... Read More

Limiting Cell Phone Use for Re-Allocation to First Responders

Judging from the 9-11 hearings and many reports by first... Read More

Toll Free Virtual PBX Systems Level the Playing Field for Small Businesses

Technology, some people fear it, some resist it, and others... Read More

Mobile Devices Security

As this security solution is not such a great idea,... Read More

Customize Your Cell Phone With Ringtones and Wallpaper

As an important part of your daily life, your cell... Read More

Cell Phones - The New Media

Every day, there are more new uses for the classic... Read More

Free Cellular Phone

Free cellular phone offers.You can definitely find a free cellular... Read More

Cell Phone - Why Should I Upgrade

We hear from friends or just general chat by people... Read More

Prepaid Wireless: Is It Right For You?

Just about every leading mobile phone provider now offers some... Read More

How to Find the Best Long Distance Rates

These days the best long distance rates are not found... Read More

Here Are Some Tips For Safe and Appropriate Use of Your Mobile Phones

Bought the latest in mobile phones? Can't wait to show... Read More

Cell Phones Endanger Children

If your child uses a cell phone, take note. A... Read More

Mobile Phone Unlocking

In the world today, you will but a phone, and... Read More

Prevent Phone Monitoring with Digital Spread Spectrum

If you are using an analog cordless or cellular telephone,... Read More

We Have Compiled a List of Wireless Cell Phones General Cautions and Warnings

For the most part, wireless cell phones are safe. And... Read More

Safer Cell Phone Use For Drivers

Cell phones are great for people on-the-go, but talking on... Read More

Cell Phone Wallpaper Bonanza

Nowadays teenagers are crazy about personalizing their cell phone and... Read More

Recognizing Common Cellular Phone Problems

Cellular phones are in schools, banks, malls, and homes across... Read More

Cellular Phones and Television

What if you want to catch up on the morning... Read More

Knowing the difference between Cell Phones and Cell Phone Plans Will Save You Time and Money

Many people go looking for cell phones without too much... Read More

Letting Go of 3G - A Viable Alternative for Asian Carriers

Most Asian cellular carriers mulling over 3G have chalked out... Read More

Will Your Cell Phone Work in an Emergency?

If you're one of the millions of cell phone users... Read More

Donate Your Old Cellular Phone To Support A Worthy Cause

With new features being added to cellular phones at an... Read More

How To Save Money On Long Distance Calling Cards And Cheap Phone Cards

In the old days (7-10 years ago) there were no... Read More

Ringtone Creation Software - Creating Raves or Waves?

Okay, so we all know that you can change the... Read More

Buying A Cell Phone ? Making Smart Choices

Whether you're buying your first cell phone, upgrading to a... Read More

Cell Phone Abuse - Tips to Curb Employee Abuse

Looking for a way to save your enterprise or government... Read More

Cell Phone Batteries, Money Saving Tips

It's hard to imagine what the world did before the... Read More

Cellular Phone Company

Cellular phone company list.There are many large cellular phone companies... Read More

Cordless Phone Systems

Cordless phone systems offer many features and are ideal for... Read More