July is National Cell Phone Courtesy Month

Cell phones are no longer used to impress others. Cell phone etiquette is really just common courtesy. The simple idea is to be aware of other people around you when you're on the phone.

Ask yourself-

Are you a polite cell phone user?

OR

Are you driving those around you crazy with your
ringing phone and loud annoying conversations?

Use your regular conversational tone when speaking on your wireless phone. People tend to speak more loudly than normal and often don't recognize how distracting they can be to others. If using the walkie-talkie feature, send the person you're trying to reach a Call Alert before starting to speak. Avoid extended calls in public places, keep the phone conversation short and get off the phone as soon as possible.

Today, more establishments are asking patrons to refrain from using a cell phone, respect the rules and do so.

In order to avoid a disruption use Caller ID, voice mail, or if you must have the phone on, use the vibrating mechanism. If the call is an emergency, quietly leave the area and take the call.

There are settings where it is inappropriate to use a cell phone:

Concerts
Lectures
Plays
Restaurants
Movies
Church Services
Funerals

Avoid loud, animated conversations; keep your voice low and at a conversational level.

Consider safety: yours and others: When driving, it’s best to use a “hands-free” setup. When driving, pull off the road and park in a safe place to make calls or ask a passenger to make a call for you.

When making a call, let others know you are using a cell phone, in case you fade in and out or if you are disconnected.

Set your phone ringer for a low basic ring, not a loud, annoying melody.

Keep in mind that the person or people you are with usually take priority over a phone call. Having a conversation in their presence can be rude and make them feel unimportant.

Remember: Demonstrate good judgment when using yours.