I grew up in the days before cell phones existed. We got along without them then, but not always without issues.
If I was out and about, and had to contact my parents, I had to find a pay phone...which meant I also had to have change in my pocket. If I had to pay for a parking space in a retail area, I also had to have coins in my pocket for the parking meter.
If there was an emergency, like a car accident, there was no immediate way to get help.
When something needed to be researched, the information wasn't readily available; it took time to access it.
It is often said that the past was "simpler times." But really, was it? It would have been a lot simpler to have had a cell
phone in all of those circumstances.
Our cell phones have evolved into indispensable tools that can potentially save lives.
One simple habit that can greatly enhance your safety and preparedness is to always keep your cell phone on you, fully charged, and within easy reach. Here's why:
Emergency
Situations
Medical Emergencies: Imagine experiencing sudden chest pains or feeling unwell. Having your phone on hand allows you to quickly call for help, potentially saving precious minutes in getting medical assistance.
Accidents and Falls: In the event of a fall or accident, especially if you're alone, your phone can be your lifeline to call for aid if you're unable to get up or need assistance.
Threatening Situations: Should you find
yourself in a threatening situation at home, at the supermarket, etc., having your phone readily available allows you to discreetly call emergency services.
Car Emergencies: Whether you're stranded on the side of the road or involved in a collision, having your phone nearby can help you quickly contact roadside
assistance or emergency services. In some cases, your phone will automatically call 911 for you.
Everyday Convenience
Grocery Shopping:
Keeping your phone on you can make grocery shopping more efficient. You can easily add items to your shopping list as you think of them, no matter where you are. You can also take a photo of the written shopping list in your home.
Store Loyalty Cards: Many stores now offer loyalty programs that can be managed
through smartphone apps. By keeping your phone with you, you can conveniently access these cards and earn rewards without the need for physical cards cluttering your wallet.
Navigation and Directions: With your phone at the ready, you always have access to GPS navigation (whether you are driving or walking)
ensuring you never get lost and can find your way to your destination, even in unfamiliar areas.
Useful tools: Most cell phones have apps that act as a calculator, level, compass, translator, camera, health tracker, and so much more...all on one device!
Power Outages and Emergencies
Flashlight Functionality: Many smartphones come equipped with a built-in flashlight feature, ensuring you have access to light during power outages
or emergencies.
Emergency Alerts: In the event of severe weather or other emergencies, authorities often send out alerts via mobile networks. Having your phone on you ensures you receive these critical notifications promptly.
Social Media: Apps like Facebook allow you to post to your network of friends or reference their posts. If your water isn't hot or the electricity is out, you can find out if it's just your home or if everyone in your neighborhood is experiencing the same thing...practically instantly.
Staying Connected
Communication: In our interconnected world, staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues is crucial. By keeping your phone on
you, you can respond to calls, texts, and email messages, maintaining important connections.
Life360: Our family uses an app on our phones called Life360. We don't use it to "spy" on each other, but rather to have the capability to know if
each person is on his or her way, whether or not that person reached the destination, or to figure out where that person is in the event of an emergency.
On my Life360 app, my husband and daughter are both on it, my dad, and my sister's family. We all
find comfort knowing that we share this extra, safety-focused connection.
Bottom line: keeping your cell phone on you and charged at all times is not just a matter of convenience; it's a matter of safety and preparedness. Make it a habit to always have your phone with you, ensuring peace of mind, convenience, and readiness wherever you
go.
