Landline Vs. Cell phone

Land line Vs. Cell phone
http://www.valleynewslive.com/story/14495711/landlines-vs-cellphones-422

Posted: Apr 22, 2011 5:39 PM TST Updated: Apr 22, 2011 7:41 PM TST

Having a land-line is a thing of the past. Many have cut the cord for a cell phone.

A new report from the National Center for Health Statistics shows more than 30% of North Dakotans use their cell phone as their primary phone number now. But, Valley News Live did some digging, and this trend could be dangerous during times when you need it the most.

Dan Willers grew up with a landline, but doesn't miss having one anymore. Like most of us, he has cut the cord... and it's helped cut costs as well.

"It's one of those things, you got your keys, wallet, cellphone you're on your way!" Willers says.

But in the event of an emergency, it could rob you time of when help comes. Byron Seiber with Red River Regional Dispatch tells us, "The cellphone gives us location by triangulating three tower sites, giving us a general idea of where you're at."

Unlike landlines, cellphone don't have"enhanced 911," meaning dispatchers won't be able to locate exactly where you are.

"If you're on the 2nd or 3rd floor, that doesn't help first responders. They're not going to know which apartment to go to," Seiber explains.

Seiber says it has been a growing trend. Out of all the 911 calls received in 2010, nearly 72% were made from cell phones.

Without the enhanced 911, it has prompted dispatchers to change the way they ask questions when there's an emergency.  in year's passed, it's used to be "911, what's your emergency, based on your information, what's the address of your emergency."

But despite the facts, some still think having a cell phone at hand, can save you.

Willers points out, "Since you're not home anyway, you wouldn't have a land line during a car accident."

MY THOUGHTS

I belong to the 30%.  I have lived with a landline for years and survived.  Even landlines at the office don't get that much attention anymore.  Except probably the local lines.