Think about the average home today. How many pieces of technology do you use on a daily basis? TVs, smart speakers, laptops, phones, and the list goes on. While life-changing, we also need to make sure that this tech is safe, both in terms of our physical and mental well-being, and you use your gadgets safely at home.
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Charging Safely
Everything seems to need its own charger these days. However, branded chargers for things like iPhones, tablets and laptops can be very expensive. It’s tempting to get a replacement charger or a spare one for a few pounds online. While saving money is a good thing, there are also dangers to this too. Poorly made chargers can be hazardous. Not only could they potentially damage your technology, but could cause electric shocks or fires.
Where possible, always use the same brand of the charger as your phone or tablet, or choose one from a reputable company. Never leave items charging on your bed or placed under a pillow while you sleep, it’s not worth the risk.
Radiation
The human body can cope with low levels of electromagnetic radiation. In fact, there is a certain level present at all times due to the earth’s magnetic field. However, many modern devices emit their own small amounts of radiation, which can really add up. Wifi, Bluetooth, 4 and 5g can all emit varying amounts of EMF. While it’s not possible to remove all exposure to this, the best EMF shielding products will help you to minimize it as much as possible.
Cable Storage
We’ve already spoken about how using the right cables to charge is important, but it’s also important that cables are secured and stored properly. Trailing cables can be a trip hazard so use your gadgets safely by limiting unsecured cables. Unsecured cables can also be dangerous for children and animals, especially if they get tangled up in them.
Reduce Blue Light
Exposure to blue light helps the human body settle into its natural circadian rhythms. During the day, your body is alert and awake, then in the evening, your body begins to prepare itself for sleep. A consistent sleep routine is vital to health. Many of today’s devices emit blue light, which can cause your body to shift from its normal sleep cycle.
While the best option is to try and limit your exposure to blue light later in the day, that’s not always possible. Instead, look for special filters you can add to the screen of your device or buy a newer device that has this built-in. You can even buy glasses with blue lens filters which you can use if you’re moving between screens.
Of course, you still may have a disturbed sleep cycle due to scrolling through your phone or gaming into the night, but it won’t be because of the levels of blue light. Technology is here to stay and can be a very positive force for good in our lives. But as with anything we put in our homes, we need to make sure that we’re using them safely.