Common Household Myths Debunked

Can talking on your cell phone at the gas station cause a fire? Can household bug bombs cause explosions? Do "heavy duty" batteries last longer?

These notions may sound familiar, but are they actually true? To find out, Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage from the Discovery Channel's hit show "MythBusters" span the globe putting these and other well-known urban legends to the test.

In their search for truth and logic, the MythBusters found that, contrary to recent reports, using your cell phone while pumping gas won't make a gas station explode. However, getting in and out of your car while filling the tank can build static electricity - and that can start a fire.

They also addressed the dilemma of "bug bombs." Many people try to solve bug problems by using common aerosol "bug bombs." In extreme attempts to get rid of pests, some people use more than the recommended amount of bug spray. The problem is that when the spray is used in a large quantity, your pilot light can ignite the spray and potentially cause an explosion.

There is good news for those who swallowed chewing gum as children, however. Hyneman and Savage confirm that gum doesn't stay in the stomach for seven years; it is digested in a few days at the most.

Finally, when it comes to powering products such as digital cameras or flashlights, Hyneman and Savage have news for you about the performance of "heavy duty" zinc batteries.

"Batteries labeled 'heavy duty' aren't so tough after all. Alkaline batteries actu

lly last up to four times longer than cheaper batteries marked 'heavy duty' and 'super heavy duty,'" Savage said. "For example, using an alkaline battery in your digital camera will allow you take about 75 to 100 pictures, while a 'heavy duty' battery might only power a handful."

"While the term 'heavy-duty' may seem longer lasting, it's actually not true at all," he said. "Alkaline batteries, like Duracell, will work harder and last-longer, every time." That's another myth busted.



By: Rick Young