Cell phone debate

[CigarNut]

When my kids were swimming regularly (competively) we got them restricted cell phones. Practices and meets were early in the morning and late in the evening and if something came up we wanted them to be able to reach us.

We made it clear what the phone was to be used for and what it was not for and for the most part the kids did the right thing.

We did not get smart phones, no camera, no Internet, no texting plan, etc. Just a basic flip phone. They could only text my wife and I. They did not get any other features until they were 16.

Also, if you just want something for emergencies you can get them any old cell phone and not get the service. As long as the phone is kept charged it can dial 911.

[T.G]

Originally Posted by CigarNut

Also, if you just want something for emergencies you can get them any old cell phone and not get the service. As long as the phone is kept charged it can dial 911.

There is a caveat to that, and it is that the phone technology must still be supported by a carrier. Things like AMPS/TDMA phones which were still being sold as late as 2005-2006 as low cost entry phones all became paperweights in 2008 when all the carriers shut down those services due to the FCC no longer requiring the support of analog cellular transmission standards after February 2008.

In short, any old digital phone that can still get carrier service will work for a 911 call. If in doubt about the functionality of the handset in question, you should be able to test this by dialing 611 or 0 from the phone to connect to the carrier operator who will attempt to sell you service for the phone.