Mobility Etiquette

Your cell phone or wireless device is your anytime, anywhere communications tool. And while one of the many benefits of wireless service is that you can keep in touch wherever you are, there are some common sense tips that will help you avoid embarrassing or disrupting mobile moments:

• Always switch your phone off when requested to do so by airline and hospital personnel.
• Turn your handset off or switch it to silent mode if you're in a quiet environment such as a theatre, concert hall, library, place of worship or restaurant.
• If you must make a call in a quiet environment, move to the lobby or another room out of earshot.
• When you're in an enclosed public space, such as an elevator or a bus, remember that a little discretion goes a long way. Either switch your phone off or answer it immediately and say that you will call back. If you must take a call, keep your voice down and your call short to avoid disturbing others.
• Take advantage of your phone's features and use call display, voice mail, and silent or vibration mode to screen and forward calls to your voice messaging service.
• Consider sending a text message when communication is important, but a phone conversation is not appropriate.
• If you're in a meeting or other gathering, and are waiting for an important call, let others know in advance. And, if you must take a call, excuse yourself to hold the conversation in a more private place.
• Set your phone's ring volume to a level suitable for your surroundings.
• Always be considerate of those around you, and remember to keep your voice down when making or receiving a call in a public space.