137 Safety
Using Your Phone Near Other Electronic Devices
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from radio frequency (RF) signals.
However, RF signals from wireless phones may affect inadequately shielded
electronic equipment.
RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic
operating systems and/or entertainment systems in motor vehicles. Check with the
manufacturer or their representative to determine if these systems are adequately
shielded from external RF signals. Also check with the manufacturer regarding any
equipment that has been added to your vehicle.
Consult the manufacturer of any personal medical devices, such as pacemakers
and hearing aids, to determine if they are adequately shielded from external RF
signals.
Note: Always turn off the phone in health care facilities and request permission
before using the phone near medical equipment.
Turning Off Your Phone Before Flying
Turn off your phone before boarding any aircraft. To prevent possible interference
with aircraft systems, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations
require you to have permission from a crew member to use your phone while the
plane is on the ground. To prevent any risk of interference, FCC regulations prohibit
using your phone while the plane is in the air.
Turning Off Your Phone in Dangerous Areas
To avoid interfering with blasting operations, turn off your phone when in a blasting
area or in other areas with signs indicating that two-way radios should be turned
off. Construction crews often use remote-control RF devices to set off explosives.
Turn off your phone when you are in an area with a potentially explosive
atmosphere. Although it is rare, your phone or its accessories could
generate sparks. Sparks could cause an explosion or a fire resulting in
bodily injury or even death. These areas are often, but not always,
clearly marked. These areas include:
•Fueling areas such as gas stations.
•Below deck on boats.
•Fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities.