Consumer warning: How to protect your electronic devices in extreme heat

Many people like the hot weather we’re having right now, but they don’t like their phone. If your phone is too hot for too long, it can be permanently damaged. That’s the subject of this consumer alert.

Most people carry their phone with them at all times. And we can take the phone with us to the beach or the park, but we need to take steps to protect the thousand-dollar computer in our pocket.

The optimal temperature for your phone is between 0 and 35 degrees Celsius. If the temperature rises above 46 degrees, it can mean big problems. I spoke to AT&T manager and technology expert Keron Incarnato and asked him for advice.

Incarnated Keron: “Don’t leave your device in a hot car. Lower the screen brightness. Sometimes it gets a little warmer inside the device when the screen is brighter. Make sure your device is up to date. You want to make sure your device is running as efficiently as possible because if it’s efficient, it won’t use as much battery. It won’t heat up as much… If you’re at the beach or outside, protect your device under a towel. Maybe put it in a bag and put it somewhere cooler. If you’re charging it, either bring it inside or wait until the evening.”

Deanna Dewberry: “Does closing your apps help?”

Incarnated:“If you regularly delete all your apps, the phone doesn’t have to be stressed as much. The components don’t get as hot. Adding heat to that can cause problems.”

Blackberry: “Okay, your phone is overheating and you’re panicking. What do you do?”

Incarnated: “If your device is overheating, get it to a shaded area as soon as possible. Take it inside. Maybe take the case off. Cases can retain heat, especially if it’s a darker case.”

Both iPhones and Androids will warn you when they get too hot. Incarnato recommends heeding this warning and bringing the phone indoors or to a shady spot. Definitely don’t put your phone in the fridge. That will cause condensation, and condensation is not your phone’s friend.

And finally, think twice about wearing your smartwatch on a hot day during strenuous activities. I know you want to close the exercise rings, but don’t do that when it’s 38 degrees outside.