Automotive Mobile Audio Video

Here are 10 tips for cell phones that include safety and security issues.

1) Cold dangers for electronics - Do not store your cell phone in a cold environment (40 deg or below). When it warms back up, moisture can form inside and damage the electronics inside. If the phone has been exposed to cold temperatures, store in a warm environment for at least 45 minutes before turning on the power (this applies to most electronics).

2) Cell phone antenna power drain- Do not touch the antenna, this causes power drain on the phone. Some antenna's are located on the back, so watch where you put your fingers.

3) Cell phone batteries - Any type of battery can explode if damaged. Recent national news reported that a young teenage girl was seriously injured when a cell phone exploded in her pocket. That is probably only a one in a million chance of that happening, just a safety tip. If any apparent damage has happened to the battery (i.e.- dropped the phone and cracked the battery) get a new battery.

4) Cell phone charging - Always charge your phone indoors (or in your car). NEVER OUTSIDE. You might get the shock of your life.

5) Recharging your cell phone - It is best to let the battery completely discharge periodically / occasionally before recharging. It helps extend the battery life. It takes up to three complete discharge and charge cycles for a new battery to achieve it's full performance. It is also recommended to not leave them on chargers for unnecessary extended periods of times.

6) Cell phone voice privacy - It is virtually impossible to "target" your cell phone conversations (minus the government agencies). But, we have heard "random" conversations over the cell phone and on scanners. If your network offers voice privacy option, you can turn it on in your Network Services settings.

7) Clean your cell phone periodically - Keep your cell phone clean with a soft dry cloth. Do not use cleaners. Q- tip swabs come in handy if you need to clean around the keys. As an absolute last resort use diluted rubbing alcohol for cleaning plastic parts. Do so at your own risk.

8) Cell phone fire danger - Turn the cell phone off while putting gas in your car. A major oil company has issued warnings to business's about this potential danger. Some say this is an "urban legend". It was stated that static electricity caused the fires, not cell phones. The guy doing the study seems very knowledgeable (visit our website for the link). Urban legend or not, just a safety recommendation. From the Naval Safety Center "NOTE: The General Services Administration (GSA) has also listed drivers responsibilities on its web page. Included is the following statement: "DO NOT use your cellular telephone when at a gas station. Cellular phone use at gas stations or anywhere fuel is stored is hazardous. The switches and high-powered batteries in the phone can generate sparks that can set-off explosions. In one incident, a driver suffered burns and his car was severely damaged when gasoline fumes ignited an explosion while he was talking on his mobile phone near a gas pump. All electronic devices in gas stations are protected with explosive containment devices, while cell phones are not."

9) Pacemakers -Keep cell phones at least 6 inches away from pacemakers. Do not carry in breast pocket. Hold to ear opposite the pacemaker.

10) Flying - Switch cell phones off in planes. It could interfere with aircraft equipment. Whether that is true or not, I sure would not want to find out at 30,000 feet.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:52 AM