Is it necessary to switch off cell phones?

It has been said that it is best to do so. We don't usually. But in some places, the static electricity from the car seat can create friction which can somehow go to a cell phone and then to the gas or gas fumes.

yah it is necessary cos accidents can happen....and we should not use cell phones near fuel station or petrol pump...

I don't turn off my cell phone when I'm fueling but leave it in the car and on. I wouldn't answer it while I'm fueling even if it was on me. I've heard it can trigger fires but don't know anyone this has happened to. Static electricity can spark a fire which is why I don't get back into the car once I've gotten out to put gas in the car.

It has to do with the fumes and the electronics in the cell phone might interfere with the electronics used to operate the credit cards in the pumps. It could also because of the fumes. Also it might interfere with the equipment in the gas station. It is the same on airplanes, having the cell phone might interfere with the magnetic field and besides the gas station attendant might feel you are talking just so to avoid paying the bill or setting up a hold up.

Its the static electricity, if you are on your cell while your at the pump the fumes and the static electricity may cause an explosion, I have never turned mine off, but I do leave it in the car till I am away from the pump. Peace and smiles

You do not need to switch off you rcellphone at petrol pumps, but should avoid using it. it is not safe to use it as there are fumes in teh air and there are chances taht a spark created in the cellphone can crate a fire and the cellphone can catch fire.