11 Reasons to Stop Using Your Cell Phone In Public Places July Is Cell Phone Courtesy Month

unbreakable rules for using today’s tech
. 
Never text or talk and drive 
This is an obvious one. Many states have laws in place regarding texting and talking on the phone 
while driving. Hint: It’s a big no-no. These are the 
warning signs that you could be a cell phone 
addict
. 
Avoid texting in work meetings 
You don’t want your boss looking up and seeing you texting away and completely ignoring what’s 
going on. Plus, if you’re the boss, it’s setting a bad example for your workers. Don’t miss these 
other 
business etiquette tips that could earn you a promotion
. 
Turn off the phone in places such as a church, temple, or theater 
Rice says there are no exceptions to this rule. There are just certain places where cell phones 
should be and often are off-limits. And remember, checking your phone and having it light up in a 

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dark theater—even if you don’t talk, text, or Tweet—is just as rude. Here are 
50 more etiquette 
rules you should always follow
. 
Avoid talking on the phone in a waiting room, but if you must, leave the area first 
Waiting rooms can be crowded and noisy—not exactly conducive to a phone call. If you must talk 
on the phone, Rice suggests leaving the area so as not to disturb your fellow waiting room 
occupants. Here some other 
occasions when texting is actually more appropriate than calling
. 
Avoid using a phone on public transportation 
On public transportation, people are often stressed, rushing, or exhausted. All they want to do is 
get where they’re going, not listen to your conversation about your cousin’s new boyfriend’s 
sister. “Be courteous when you are in public, enjoy the moment and your friends, but above all be 
smart about your smartphone manners,” says Rice. These are other