Get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level — a level that lets the sound come through clearly without annoying blaring or distortion and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing.

Sound can be deceiving. Over time, your hearing "comfort level" adapts to higher volumes of sound, so what sounds "normal" can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.

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IN THE OFFICE

• Capture a whiteboard after a meeting.
  How many times have you left a meeting wishing that you could capture all the great ideas on a whiteboard or easel board? Now you can.
• Shoot before you scan.
  Use your digital camera to capture documents, photos or anything else that you want to capture. A scanner is nothing more than a digital imaging device. Today's high-resolution cameras can capture documents and photos quicker and easier than a desktop scanner

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ON THE GO

• Be prepared for an accident.
  Carry your digital camera in the car with you. In the event of a fender bender you can take pictures of the accident for your insurance company or court date.
• Give better directions.
  You have probably given directions to your home or office hundreds of times, but have you ever considered taking pictures of intersections, signs or landmarks to make it easier for the visual learners to find you?
• Do I have mustard on my face?
  Heading off to a meeting or date after a meal but can't find a mirror? Take a quick self portrait to see if you have condiments on your face or lettuce between your teeth.
• Digital breadcrumbs.
  Traveling in a new city or a foreign country and don't know your way around (or even how to pronounce street names)? Take a picture of the hotel, the street sign and the address on the building so that you can find your way back.
• Find your car in a crowded lot.
  Take a picture of your space number, row or section.

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AT HOME

• Photograph your home and belongings.
  Photos are extremely useful in helping you remember your belongings in the event of a loss, plus they provide proof of ownership to your insurance company.
• Take pictures of guests.
  You may ask overnight or out-of-town guests to sign a guest book, but how great would it be to have their picture accompany their entry.
• Create activities for the kids.
  With the increasing number of kid-friendly models on the market, why not use it as learning opportunity. Create games or activities that require using the camera, such as a scavenger hunt or a storybook.