Dear reader, be carefully aware that you could be hurt or killed if you make the choice of using your cell phone while it is plugged into the wall and charging. A young person in MIami, Florida, USA was charging his normal cell phone when an incoming call arrived. While his phone was still connected to the wall outlet he reached for and answered his phone.
In just a few seconds a surge of electricity traveled from the wall up the length of cord and knocked the boy to the floor with a thunderous jolt. The boy’s parents discovered him unconscious. His body was still warm and his hands showed signs of being severely burnt.
He was rushed to the University of Miami Hospital. He was pronounced deceased shortly after arriving by ambulance in the hospital’s ER department. Sadly, all he did was pick up his charging phone to perhaps talk with a friend or relative.
There are many things that happen which are more likely to occur than being killed by a charging cell phone, yet still, it could happen. Being struck by random lightning, being the recipient of a winning medal in the World Olympics are statistically more likely. Still, the chance of death by cell phone exists. Be careful even of the common daily use of your choice in the phone and manner which you use it.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers sound advice: (1) Do not use batteries that are not included with your phone. (2) Avoid hot places of storage and do not either store your phone near metal while it is being charged. (3) Visit the site ‘productssafety.gov’ for the latest information on all kinds and types of household products.
It is a sad example of a the case of this young man losing his life from such the common situation. His parents grieve and his friends surely miss the lad. Just be very careful, people, whenever you consider answering a ringing phone while it is plugged into an outlet.
Is the call really important enough to risk your lives? May be being ready to check your Voicemail rather than answering the incoming ring is a better idea? Use your heads and stay conscious of the knowledge that in this world weird things are always having a way of happening.
