Maximise Your Cell Phones

Did you know that brain tumor is now the most potent murderer of little children out of all cancers?

Everyone enjoys talking on cell phones, but prolonged use can be very hazardous to our health and well-being. Therefore, we should be looking at this pressing issue, since an increasing number of people are now being affected. In fact, in some developed countries, the mobile phone penetration rate even exceeds 100%. This can lead to serious problems if no attempt is made to rationalize cellphone usage.

1. Minimise Cell Phone Usage.

1. When in range of telephones, turn your cell phone off.
2. If you are at risk of overusing, get a prepaid card.

2. Minimise Radiation Exposure.

1. Only use cell phones to make essential calls and keep them short.
2. Younger children should not be allowed to use cell phones that much because they are most at risk.
3. Avoid using cell phones in enclosed metal spaces such as elevators.
4. Avoid wired headsets.
5. Keep your cell phone away from your head when your call is connection.
6. Avoid using your cell phone if the signal strength is down to a bar or less.
7. When purchasing a cell phone, choose one with a low SAR (Specific Absorption Rate).
8. Keep your cell phone out of your pocket when it is on or in use.

3. Be Careful on the Road

1. Try to use a hands-free accessory.
2. Still the conversation itself will distract you, so only make calls when your vehicle is stationary.
3. Hold your phone at eye level to give yourself a clear view of the road.
4. Never read or write text messages while driving.
5. Make sure your phone is within easy reach while driving.
6. Do not look for your phone while driving even if it rings.
7. Be cautious while pulling over to make or receive calls.

4. Watch how you are spending.

1. Wait for at least 2 years before you change your cell phone, or as and when your plan expires. Youths, like you, probably do not require cell phones with the latest technologies.
2. Watch out for hidden costs when downloading applications such as games, wallpapers and ringtones.
3. Delete those games or ringtones you no longer use. You can easily get your own ringtone off your playlist.
4. Unsubscribe to services you do not require such as roaming or road assistance.
5. Scrutinise and affirm that your phone bill is accurate and that you are not been charged extra.

5. Go Green!

1. Recycle your phone. Collective Good or the Charitable Recyling program are a good place to start.
2. Charge your phone only when the battery has been depleted and not every night.
3. Reduce your phone's backlight to minimise battery usage.
4. If your phone has an alarm clock and you do not switch off your phone at night, you may want to use that instead of a traditional alarm clock which runs on batteries.
5. Consider using a solar power charger.

Acknowledgements:

1. Adam Fendelman on tricks to keep your cellphone green. (14th March 2009)
2. Kalon Prensky for certain cellphone safety tips. (29th March 2009)
3. Reed Berry for cellphone safety when driving. (29th March 2009)