This week’s heatwave is bound to see Brits flocking to the seaside, but sun-worshippers are being urged to be wary of a few risks to their mobile phones. There are a number of ways a trip to the beach can cause havoc with a device, and mobile experts have warned Brits to watch out for three hazards which pose a risk to your devices – sea, sand and sun.
Lee Elliott, chief product officer at tech recyling firm Compare and Recycle, said our phones are a lifeline but they aren’t as durable as we would like to think when exposed to sun, sea and sand. Protective measures you can take include putting your phone in a waterproof pouch.
Experts also recommend keeping devices in the shade to keep control of its temperature. Switching your smartphone to flight mode or low power mode can also help.
If grains of sand do get into a hard-to-reach part of the phone, then try using a soft brush to remove them rather than something pointy or sharp to do the job.
For those who can, it might be a better idea to leave the phone at home, or if on holiday in your room safe. This should keep it out of harm’s way and away from thieves.
But if you can’t be without it, some resorts offer beach lockers where you can stow valuables for a small fee.
There are also anti-theft bags on the market for those who can’t be without their mobiles.
These often lock and can be fixed to an object or even you, if you think there’s a risk you could fall asleep while stretched out on the beach.
Waterproofed dry bags are also available to buy and you can attach these to yourself if you go for a swim and no one is there you trust who can look after your belongings.
Another option, recommended by the Post Office, is to bury your valuables under your towel, but this is “the least ideal” option, especially if it’s your phone and you want to keep sand out. There’s also a risk thieves will see you burying it.
The same source described travel insurance as “a must” too. Gadget cover for mobiles, tablets and smartphones can be arranged ahead of travel.
ID Mobile recommended making sure you activate Find My iPhone for iOS and Android’s Find My Device so you can track, lock or wipe your phone if it goes missing.
