CHARLOTTE, N.C. – It can happen to anyone — anyone who takes their smartphone near a pool, bathtub, lake, or ocean. Take your eyes off it for just a second, and boom, it falls.
Luckily, it’s not a surefire way to die like it was a few years ago: newer smartphones are water-resistant, and some can even be submerged in water to a certain depth and for a certain amount of time.
Still, you’ll need to act fast to improve your phone’s chances of survival. Needless to say, every situation is different, but here are some ways to protect your phone from water damage and some things you should know before taking it to the beach or pool.
● Your new phone is IP68 rated, meaning it can be submerged in up to 1.5 metres of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. However, this rating doesn’t apply to pools, lakes or oceans, as water pressure and corrosive substances like chlorine and salt can damage your phone.
● If your phone has a cracked screen or back, there is a high chance that water will get inside and cause damage.
● If your phone is submerged in water other than fresh water, rinse it immediately and dry it. Remove the case and avoid using a hair dryer or leaving it in direct sunlight.
● Blow gently into the opening to shake off any excess water. Turn off your phone if it is on and do not allow it to charge.
● Keep your phone in a cool, dry place. Place it in a ziplock bag with some silica gel to absorb moisture and leave it for a few hours or overnight. The previous recommendation to put it in a bowl of rice is no longer recommended as it will only make your phone dusty.
● If your phone won’t turn on, take it to a qualified technician to see if it can be repaired.
● The best way to protect your phone from water damage is to take precautions.
Use a waterproof case if you’re near water and keep your phone stowed away when swimming or boating.
Remember, the 4th of July is the most dangerous day for smartphones, with a 42% increase in cell phone accidents compared to any other day of the year.
So please be especially careful with your cell phones near water this holiday weekend.
