How to properly use cell phones in modern society

Hello, everybody, and welcome back to another Cecil’s World in Print. Remember the Verizon cell phone commercial “Hello? Can you hear me now?” I really think everybody can hear you now.

It’s so crazy, cell phones are everywhere! The technology is incredible. You can do just about anything with your cell phone. A few weeks ago, WBTW News13 gave us new cell phones and some of us got a BlackBerry. I am so glad I did not get one of those. I looked at one of those high-tech phones but had no idea how to work it. I think a degree in electronics will help you or make sure you keep the directions with you while using it.

This is the age of communications and you can always be in touch with your cell. No, this is not a commercial. It is a fact. Today’s cell phones can take still pictures and video, you can answer and send e-mails, listen to music, send text messages. I am still learning how to do this. And, of course, you can play games and watch a movie.

How many of you reading this column have cell phones?

Wow, a lot of you. There is no age group for cell phones. Kids as young as 6 years old have cell phones to stay in touch with their parents. Senior citizens have them in case of emergencies and to call their grandkids. In 2004, there were 180 million cell phone users in the United States and, by 2009, sales per year are predicted to top the 1 billion mark with an estimated 2.6 billon cell phones in use. Statistics indicate most cell phone users replace their phone every year and a half. All of this information is according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

With the increased use of cell phones, I decided to take a little survey to find out just how many people are using them while they drive. From my house to the television station, it’s six miles. Last week, I counted every car I passed to see how many drivers were on their phones. I could not believe it. About 7:30 in the morning, I counted 26 people on their cell phones talking and three texting while driving. I can deal with the talking on the phones while driving, but texting is a little too much for me. I made sure I stayed clear of them because they were looking at their phone more than the road.

Five states (California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Washington) have enacted laws prohibiting driving while talking on handheld cell phones.

Now, here are a few do’s and don’ts about using your cell phone. Do not walk into a business talking on your cell phone, it’s very rude. When you receive a call in a restaurant or business, walk outside so you do not interrupt others. You do not have to impress anyone with your cell phone because everyone has one.

Until next time, call a friend or family member to check on them. There is no reason you can’t have a cell phone. See you next week, right here in the Morning News and on the tube. Can you hear me now?

— Cecil Chandler is a veteran reporter at WBTW News13. His column appears Mondays in the Morning News.