Cell Phone Consumer Information

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been alerted to recent reports and rumors that suggest it is dangerous to use a cellular phone while filling your vehicle with gas or in the presence of flammable materials.

There is no evidence that these reports are true.

One of the reports circulating describes incidents where consumers are injured by fires or explosions when they use their cell phones at gas stations. In these stories, a fire was reportedly ignited or an explosion occurred when an individual's cellular phone rang and was answered. Supposedly, an electrical spark from the phone ignited the fires or caused the explosion.

These reports are not supported by any documentation that the fire and/or explosion was caused by the cellular phone - or that the incidents even occurred.

The rumors and reports may be fueled by warnings posted at gas stations or included in cellular phone owners' manuals suggesting that cellular phones should not be used around fuel vapors.

Scientific testing, however, has not established a dangerous link between the two. Cellular phone manufacturers and fuel companies have issued these warnings as a precaution. If you have questions about your cellular phone, contact your wireless phone company.

Information Provided by the Federal Communications Commission

Last Modified: Wednesday, 14-Feb-2007 12:43:14 MST