We’ve all been there. The classroom is dead quiet and a select few students are listening to their iPods. Everything is going just dandy when all of a sudden I hear it. There is one person who took it upon themselves to decide that the whole class would enjoy hearing their music.

So then, I find myself sitting in my desk distracted to the point that I can’t concentrate on my work. I start to think if that person knows about all the damage they are causing their ears. I say it’s time for people to learn the facts about loud music. And if they don’t want to turn down the music, then maybe they should turn off the iPod.

Just so we’re clear, I am not one of those people that goes crazy every time I hear someone listening to their music too loud. I will be the first to admit that I have done it a few times myself. But to constantly blare your music every day is just ridiculous. There are times when playing your music a little louder than normal is acceptable. However, it’s not something that is necessary all the time.

Listening to your music at full blast is not only annoying to others, but it has potential to be harmful to your hearing. Listening to loud music can cause permanent hearing loss. This can be prevented by listening to your headphones at no more than 50 percent volume. Also, you shouldn’t use in-ear headphones since they have even more potential to cause you hearing damages.

Just remember that how loud you listen to your music not only affects others but it is hurting you in the long run too. Hearing aids can potentially be expensive, so if you can prevent the loss of your hearing and money later in life by turning down your music now, wouldn’t you want to?

Now that you have the facts, maybe you will think twice the next time you think about listening to the new Britney Spears single on full blast.