Is Bluetooth Safe?
These days, Bluetooth is an incredibly common thing, alongside Wi-Fi and the internet in general. Because of that, it can be a good idea to learn about what powers these features in our devices as well as what problems they may cause.
Let’s take a look at Bluetooth and whether or not it’s safe to use on a regular basis. That way, you can take any steps needed to keep yourself and others safe.
Why are the Concerns About Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?
As many of us are aware, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi work through the use of things like infrared, radio signals and other electronics. While these kinds of devices may seem to be everywhere, there are some who are still concerned about the kinds of effects radiation from the devices may have.
Most of us have heard of or seen the effects that large amounts of radiation can have, especially with regard to illnesses like cancer. Because of this, you may just want to make sure that the peace of mind people tend to have around Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is actually warranted.
What Kinds of Devices Use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi?
The number of devices using Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi has been steadily growing. This also means that it’s extremely likely that a person might have such a device on them at any given time.
Some well-known items that use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi include:
- Cellphones
- Wireless speakers/earphones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Wearable devices (Fitbits, etc.)
When you’re shopping for or around these kinds of devices, it’s a good idea to just be aware of the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi capabilities.
How Does Bluetooth Work?
Bluetooth functions using radio waves considered to be low in power. Typically, they make use of a 2.45GHz band to send and receive information. This band tends to be used specifically by devices within the medical, industrial and scientific categories as well as things like garage door openers and baby monitors.
How Does Wi-Fi Work?
Similar to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi also uses radio waves to function. The main difference is that Wi-Fi uses slightly different frequencies, also known as bands. Additionally, devices that use Wi-Fi contain wireless adapters that help them to translate data they receive.
What Do We Know About Bluetooth?
It’s important to take into consideration what is known about Bluetooth before worrying too much about what isn’t known. There have been some studies done on the subject, just to ensure that it isn’t something that will be hugely damaging to people.
The Radiation is Considered Non-Ionizing
The concept of non-ionizing radiation is compared to ionizing radiation, which we can find in things like X-Rays, UV rays and nuclear explosions. Because of this, we tend to find Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to be safer, as it isn’t as closely associated with the idea of causing changes or damage to DNA.
However, not everyone believes that this makes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth completely safe. It may still be worthwhile to just take a few safety steps to avoid potential problems.
Tests Have Been Conducted on Radiation Levels
Naturally, items that make use of any kind of radiation aren’t likely to be placed on the market without some testing. As a result, scientists have looked into the effects of radiation related to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both cells as well as living organisms, in an effort to seek out potential problems.
What Don’t We Know About Bluetooth?
Knowing what isn’t known can be as helpful as knowing what we have discovered with regard to these topics. That way, you can look for any holes that have shown up in the research done on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Tests Can Be Inconclusive
While tests have been completed on this non-ionizing radiation, the results of them have been somewhat mixed. As a result, it’s a good idea to take a deeper look into the results of those tests before making the choice to either purchase or avoid Bluetooth.
Some Basic Safety Steps To Take
It’s rarely a bad idea to take some steps when it comes to your personal safety. This is especially true if the steps are rather small and easy. It’s a small price to pay for avoiding a little extra radiation in your life.
Consider Your Router Placement
If a router is something you use regularly in your home, then an easy way to decrease radiation that may be present is to just keep it stored away from more popular living spaces. Additionally, you can choose to keep it unplugged when it isn’t being actively used. These steps can allow you to make use of the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when needed without unnecessary contact.
Store Devices Away From Your Body
If you use items like a tablet, cellphone or other device that makes use of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, then you may want to consider keeping it in a purse or bag rather than in your pocket. This just keeps and potential radiation a little farther away from you, creating less worry overall.
Think About Wearable Devices
As you might imagine, wearable devices may have more of a chance of emitting radiation close to your body. As a result, it’s worth considering whether or not you want to use these devices. It can’t hurt to do a little research on these specific tools, just to make sure you feel comfortable with them before buying one.
Try a Wired Connection
If keeping your router stored somewhere away from main living areas isn’t enough, you can also choose to just avoid Wi-Fi and Bluetooth altogether and only use wired connections. Most devices make this possible, and if all you need is a wire to help you feel safe, then go for it!
Conclusion
Overall, it can typically be a good idea to take some precautions when it comes to things like radiation, chemicals and other things we don’t know everything about. A few extra steps may help to avoid long-term problems that we simply aren’t fully aware of just yet.
