Today, we disconnected our home phone line.  I know this may not be earth-shattering news to many, but it marks the first time in my life that I have ever been without an old fashioned phone line.  Right now, we have three cell phones for our four family members (and I am sure that number four will be coming soon!).  We had a few qualms about “cutting the chord” but decided in the long run that it would be best for us.  We were paying about $50/month to have a phone with an extended area and an unlisted number.

In any event, our two main concerns were our security system and 911 coverage.  As I studied the issue, I found that most security companies offer a digital device that connects through the cellular network.  For much less than we were paying for our corded phone, we could add the digital cellular backup and pay for the increased monitoring fee.  On installation day, I spoke to the technician who indicated that more and more people are pulling the plug every day.  He assured me that the system was every bit as reliable as the corded telephone.

Regarding the 911 question, I discovered two important facts.  One, if you use the keypad on the security system (most have a “panic” button that allows you to press a single button to contact police, fire, or medical emergency services).  Since this would utilize the security monitoring service, they would have your address on file and could notify the proper authorities on your behalf.  Second, most localities have the ability to locate many cell phones within a small proximity.  For the most part, I do not feel that making a 911 call from a cell phone is any different than doing so with a landline.

When all is said and done, I do not believe that we will miss the landline.  However, it just seems odd to me!

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