I ALWAYS come to DU for advice, and I need some now. Tired of my nephews and

[elfin]

35. I finally got a tracfone many years ago just for safety

And to get the kids off my back. $100/ year for peace of mind and convenience when in the car or out of town.

They kept upgrading my phone for free and now have one that can TEXT!, can take and send PICS!

Do not use either feature and refuse to live the "cel phone life."

BUT it has been invaluable for a few roadside snags and for use when the landline is kaput.

Check it out along with other cheap prepaid plans.

Radio Shack has most along with helpful staff in my experience.

I now have over 1700 minutes due to their rollover plan and generous extras when I update my once a year plan.

Every once in a while, I use it for regular calls to use up unused units because I have already paid for t hem in a sense.

The trick is to remember to turn it on while in the car, so you don't have to fiddle with it in an emergency, or when calling the pizzeria to make sure your order is ready when you arrive (not while driving, of course.)