Want a Better Listener? Protect Those Ears
Hearing experts agree that levels of 85 decibels (dBA) is a safe level, equivalent to that of busy city traffic. With the advent of MP3 players and the convenience of personal rock concerts on-the-go whether in the subways, or while exercising, the risk of hearing loss has become too high.
- Research shows more than 15 minutes of exposure to 100 decibels (the sound level of a chainsaw or pneumatic drill) is unsafe. The noise in a football stadium can reach 100 to 130 db. Maximum volume of MP3 players such as iPods can be as high as 120 db. Try to listen to no more than 1 hr of music on 60% volume (Fligor et al., 2004)
- According to the deafness institute, almost 28 million Americans have hearing loss. One-third have damage because of loud noise.
- But if you experience ringing in your ears, find that noises sound muffled, experience temporary hearing loss after a loud concert or have difficulty hearing someone 3 feet away, get your hearing tested.
It is better to be conscious of our decisions, and noise levels. Make a wise choice, and invest in earmuffs for your babies and children, to protect their ears at sporting events. They run about $20, and can actually make the stadium experience enjoyable, with the baby not crying, and you not acknowledging the reason.
