As Americans tune in to iPods, MP3 players, and portable DVD players, the importance of listening at safe levels grows. Exceeding recommended volume settings for extended periods of time can potentially result in permanent hearing damage. To mark May Is Better Hearing & Speech Month, students in the Communications Sciences and Disorders department will be offering free sound level measurements of personal listening devices today (May 10) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hamel Recreation Center

As part of the event, students will be asked to complete a survey about their listening practices and will receive information about how to conserve their hearing. “Personal listening systems can be enjoyed at safe listening levels, but students need to be educated about noise exposure and its potential impact on their hearing,” says Jeanne O’Sullivan, clinical associate professor, who is supervising the students with Mary Jane Sullivan, clinical assistant professor and audiologist.