Frequency Fears?

We hear a lot about harmful outdoor rays in the summer, so we lather on the sunscreen and keep hats on at all times. But what about the harmful rays inside the house that we keep hearing about, like the ones that come from cell phones, laptops or even hair dryers?

As experts and pundits continue to debate the dangers of wireless technologies like WiFi (the signal technology commonly used to connect us to the Internet and the reason your local Starbucks looks like a laptop farm), we’re connecting the dots about hot spots, EMFs and what to do if you want to reduce your exposure to them at home.

What’s the full-blown truth about your hair dryer and more?
Every electronic device in our home—appliances, hairdryers, electric blankets, clocks, even your electric toothbrush—gives off an electromagnetic field (EMF) containing low levels of radiation. While some researchers believe ongoing exposure to EMFs (particularly higher frequency) can contribute to adverse health, suffice it to say there are much greater dangers than the daily use of your hair dryer (like slipping in the bathtub).

The concern increases, however, when discussing the impact of wireless technology including wireless routers, cell phones, cordless digital phones, Bluetooth devices and even some baby monitors. These devices emit a more powerful form of electromagnetic energy called electromagnetic radiation (EMR). According to some experts, this may contribute to serious health issues due to the omnipresence of wireless devices in our daily lives.

How does WiFi go from good to potentially bad?
The freedom to access the Internet, anywhere, anytime, in or out of your home (i.e. a coffee shop hot spot), is undeniably convenient. Your laptop, tablet, or smart phone can continually communicate to the Internet through a wireless adapter and router. In your home, this exchange may go on all day and night, allowing a steady release of EMR into your environment. If your WiFi is always on, it’s always radiating.

What’s the risk, really?
The experts are still debating on what the risks are and how to advise the public. In late May, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified EMFs as possibly carcinogenic to humans, but stressed there was only limited evidence to support their classification (and it pertained specifically to cellular phone use, not WiFi). Other research and studies (albeit problematic in some cases) have shown that repeated exposure to EMFs and EMR can disturb the human body’s natural energy field, potentially leading to DNA changes, asthma, degenerative diseases like cancer, childhood leukemia and Alzheimer’s, birth defects and miscarriages.

Is this a total turn off?
Before you diss the genius of Benjamin Franklin and pack in your favourite mod cons, there are simple ways of limiting your family`s exposure to WiFi emissions. The best advice is to completely turn off your wireless devices, including your router, at night. (A timer can be added to make turning on and off at specific times automatic.) Try to keep your wireless router away from high living areas (the basement is usually a good spot).

Finally, there are screening companies that offer home inspections and audits, whose staff are able to give you educated advice on cutting down your exposure.

Danger, or no danger, there are always benefits to tuning out and turning off. Reading books at night or spending sunny, summer days with the family outdoors can be just as fun as surfing the net.Tested by Alison R., Toronto