Section 4A: Safety Guidelines 201
Using Your Phone Near Other Electronic Devices
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from radiofrequency (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 your phone off when in a
blasting area or in other areas with signs indicating two-way radios should be
turned off. Construction crews often use remote-control RF devices to set off
explosives.
Turn your phone off when you’re in any area that has a potentially explosive
atmosphere. Although it’s rare, your phone and accessories could generate sparks.
Sparks can cause an explosion or fire, resulting in bodily injury or even death.
These areas are often, but not always, clearly marked. They include:
Fueling areas such as gas stations.
Below deck on boats.
Fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities.
Areas where the air contains chemicals or particles such as grain, dust, or metal
powders.
Any other area where you would normally be advised to turn off your vehicle’s
engine.
Note: Never transport or store flammable gas, liquid or explosives in the compartment of your
vehicle that contains your phone or accessories.
