Radio Frequency Safety Made Simple for Parents

Kids are surrounded by gadgets that emit radio frequency (RF) signals – from Wi‑Fi routers to baby monitors. It can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need a science degree to keep your family safe. Below we break down what RF actually is, why it matters, and what you can do today without turning your home into a tech‑free zone.

What Is Radio Frequency?

Radio frequency is a type of electromagnetic energy that travels through the air. Your phone, tablet, Bluetooth speaker, and even the Wi‑Fi box in the hallway all send out low‑level RF waves. The level of energy is measured in milliwatts, and most consumer devices stay well below the limits set by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

When it comes to kids, the main concern is long‑term exposure. Studies show that typical household levels are far lower than the thresholds that cause biological effects. Still, parents want to reduce any unnecessary exposure, especially for babies who spend a lot of time close to monitors and bassinets.

Practical Steps to Reduce Exposure

1. Keep devices a reasonable distance away. Place routers on a shelf above head height or in a room where children don’t sleep. A few feet of space cuts exposure dramatically.

2. Turn off Wi‑Fi at night. Most routers have a timer function. Switching it off while the house is sleeping removes a constant source of RF for several hours.

3. Use wired connections when possible. Connecting a laptop or smart TV with an Ethernet cable eliminates Wi‑Fi emissions from that device entirely.

4. Limit direct contact with phones. Encourage kids to hold the phone away from their head and body while talking. For infants, avoid placing a phone on the crib or near a baby monitor.

5. Choose low‑SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) phones. Check manufacturer specs – a lower SAR means the phone absorbs less RF energy when held close to the body.

These small changes are easy to adopt and don’t require you to ditch your favorite gadgets.

Another tip is to be mindful of baby monitors that use Wi‑Fi or DECT technology. Some parents switch to analog monitors that work on a fixed frequency and don’t connect to the internet. If you stay with a digital monitor, place it at least a foot away from the crib and turn it off when you’re not using it.

For families who travel, look for cars with built‑in Wi‑Fi that can be turned off. The same distance rule applies – keep your child’s seat away from the hotspot antenna.

Finally, keep an eye on new devices entering the market. Some newer toys use Bluetooth or RFID tags. Check the packaging for RF emission information and follow any safety guidance provided.

By staying aware of where RF comes from and making a few simple adjustments, you can lower exposure without losing the convenience of modern tech. Remember, the goal isn’t to ban devices, but to use them smarter for your family’s peace of mind.