NYPD Tweets Warning to Keep Cell Phones Away From Pillows

Lifestyle

 | February 23, 2016 | By Margo Gothelf

The NYPD is warning cell phone users to keep their devices far away from pillows and sheets.

Recently, the NYPD tweeted an alarming photo that shows charred phones on top of burnt bedding.

Don't put your cellphone under a pillow when sleeping or when charging your device.Please share this tip and b safe! pic.twitter.com/uwD3PXgVQf

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— NYPD 33rd Precinct (@NYPD33Pct) February 16, 2016

The tweet comes with the message, “Don’t put your cellphones under a pillow when sleeping or when charging your device. Please share this tip and b safe!”

It is unclear where and when the photos came from, but the message is still strong. Gothamist pointed out that the photos resemble those similar to an incident that happened last year when a Texas’ teenager’s sheets and pillow caught fire due to her phone.

By covering the phone with fabric, it can cause the phone to overheat resulting in a potential explosion. While the problem isn’t likely to happen, the NYPD is sending the message that it is better to be safe than sorry.

Keeping a cellphone in bed also has other consequences. The LED screen disrupts your circadian rhythm. Also, long-term exposure to the radiation from cellphones has not been thoroughly studied.

The message from the NYPD was well received by the community. One Twitter user even responded by sharing, “You probably just saved my life.”

@NYPD33Pct I always put my phone under my pillow when charging at night.Thanks for the PSA! Handled, no longer pending. *shudders*

— NB (@NBurns716) February 16, 2016