Helpful Hints from joeeze: A car charger for your phone is NOT an option — it's a must

In Saturday's New York Times, Alina Tugend in her "Shortcuts" column wrote, "According to the National Center for Health Statistics, as of the first half of last year — the latest figures available — more than three out of every 10 American homes had only cellphones."

"What about during blackouts? Cellphones rely on cell towers, and when electricity is interrupted the networks that transmit the call can be affected."

"And of course, you have to have a charged battery to use your cellphone. The nonprofit group Utility Consumers' Action Network suggests on its Web site that if a cellphone is your main form of communication, you consider investing in a backup battery pack."

All well and good but there's no need to ever be without a functioning cellphone if you have a car or access to one.

Simply attach your phone to a car charger, stick it in the lighter socket, and Bob's your uncle.

As long as there's gas in the car, you can talk till the cows come home.

Even after the tank's empty, your car battery has plenty of hours of chat still in it.

Now order that car charger right now — not later when you have time — because we both know that just ain't gonna happen.

If you have an iPhone, here's one from Griffin, whose products work.

It's much better to go with a name brand accessory than much cheaper generics, which as often as not don't do the job.

You will note that the device is an integrated solution: that is, the connecting cable can't be disconnected from the charger.

You will be happy you went that route as opposed to this one when you need to charge your phone and realize you forgot the charging cable.

I know you so well.

Now get on the stick and order one.

Now, not later.

I've been around you long enough not to fall for your lame excuses.

As if.