Why It’s Important to Own a Cell Phone

Often, when you start living in the community independently, the biggest concern is safety. If I lost myself? If I hurt myself? If the bus did not arrive? If I came late? If the community center was closed when I arrived? If I could not find a phone booth? The “ifs” should not stop you from going out and enjoying the activities in your neighbourhood.

A cell phone or smartphone (Blackberry or iPhone) can make you independent while providing you with a safety net when needed. The phones come in a variety of styles and colors and offer a wide range of programs, including games, Global Positioning System (GPS) and tools such as a calculator.

It is Important to identify the specific safety concerns you are most concerned about. You should take time to discuss with your parents or support worker what concerns you when you take public transit or when you walk in your neighbourhood. It is Important to express your concerns, as well as to listen to the interests of your loved ones. Once security concerns have been identified, you can think about how a cell phone can solve these problems. Here are some examples:

• To be able to call someone for help right away, you should record Important phone numbers (parents, support workers, friends) in your phone’s phonebook. You can put these numbers in speed dial so you can call these people by pressing a single switch. If you have to worry about reading, most cell phones allow you to add a photo to the contact, so you can choose the right number for the person to call.
• You should give your phone number to people important to you. So, they can call you in case of worry or if they have something urgent and Important to tell you.
• If you are late for an appointment and you have the number of the person you are going to meet, she can call you to find out where you are. You can also call him to let him know that you will be late.
• If you are misplaced, you must call one of the Significant numbers in your phonebook. Thus, this person can help you find your way.
• It may also be useful to save 911 in your directory. By dialing 911, you will be redirected to the police station, emergency room or fire department in your area. Remember that this number should be dialed only in case of an emergency, if you are injured or if you have a severe problem.
• If you have lost your way, most cell phones have a GPS (Global Positioning System) that can calculate and show you the route to your destination. Often, a program can pronounce the directions aloud.
• There are built-in services on some phones that allow parents or support workers to track the phone’s location, such as “TELUS Kids Find.” If you are a mature 18 years of age or elder, the decision to subscribe to such a facility must not be taken flippantly and should be based on mutual agreement between you and your parents or support worker. However, once this decision is made, the tracing service can reassure both the nervous adult with the idea of ​​going out alone in the community, and parents and support workers who are concerned about the safety of the child. adult.

Today’s cell phones can be more than just a safety tool. Once you’ve determined how you want to use your cell phone for your safety, think about other positive things you can do with your phone. Here are some examples:

• Most phones have a built-in calculator so you can calculate if you’ve been given the exact change for a purchase. The Money Magic Arcade game shows you how to make a change with Canadian coins and how to use a calculator.
• It is also possible to have fun with your phone, especially when you are waiting for an appointment or a long drive or bus. All phones contain free games included with the device. Many other games are available for purchase and download for just 99 cents per game.
• All cell phones are equipped with a clock indicating the time.
• It is possible to download music and movies on some phones.
• You can look at the local weather on some phones, which allows you to decide how to dress or how to get to your destination without any hassle.

You will also need to determine the payment method for the phone and service. Several options are possible.

• A fixed-term contract implies that it can not be modified during the whole duration of the contract (for example, 2 or 3 years). Each service provider offers standard agreements. Be very careful about what is included in the deal or not. If you exceed the limits for a given service, or if you use a service that is not involved, it can cost you a considerable additional amount in addition to your monthly bill.
• The pay-per-use option allows you to control your monthly phone expenses better. With this option, you put a certain amount of money on your account balance, which gives you a certain number of minutes of communication. You will only be able to type calls if your account is positive. You can buy prepaid cards or various amounts in many stores, including convenience stores. You must follow the instructions on the map to activate it and add the minutes of communication to your account. Many ISPs also offer an option to automatically add money to your account every month with a credit card.

A smartphone can be a Good way to bring you more independence while ensuring some security. You have access to many programs and features on a cell phone. It is Important that you identify your main safety concerns, as well as other uses you want to do with your cell phone. Now you are ready to search for the most suitable phone for you.