Health and Safety Information 162Section 13: Health and Safety InformationGetting the Most Out of Your ReceptionKeeping Tabs on Signal StrengthThe quality of each call you make or receive depends on the signal strength in your area. Your phone informs you ofthe current signal strength by displaying a number of bars next to the signal strength icon. The more bars displayed,the stronger the signal. If you’re inside a building, being near a window may give you better reception.Understanding How Your Phone OperatesYour phone is basically a radio transmitter and receiver. When it’s turned on, it receives and transmits radio frequency(RF) signals. When you use your phone, the system handling your call controls the power level. This power can rangefrom 0.006 watts to 0.2 watts in digital mode.Knowing Radio Frequency SafetyThe design of your phone complies with updated NCRP standards described below. In 1991-92, the Institute ofElectrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) joined in updatingANSI’s 1982 standard for safety levels with respect to human exposure to RF signals. More than 120 scientists,engineers and physicians from universities, government health agencies, and industries developed this updatedstandard after reviewing the available body of research. In 1993, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)adopted this updated standard in a regulation. In August 1996, the FCC adopted a hybrid standard consisting of theexisting ANSI/IEEE standard and the guidelines published by the National Council of Radiation Protection andMeasurements (NCRP).Maintaining Your Phone’s Peak PerformanceThere are several simple guidelines for operating your phone properly and maintaining safe, satisfactory service.• Speak directly into the mouthpiece.• Avoid exposing your phone and accessories to rain or liquid spills. If your phone does get wet, immediately turnthe power off and remove the battery. If it’s inoperable, return it to a dealer store or call Customer Support forservice.