Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Md., has installed a special noise-level monitor that is designed to look like a traffic light with green, yellow, and red lights.

Traffic light displaying green light

The stoplight noise-level monitor stays green when people speak softly. As the noise level increases, the stoplight flashes yellow as a reminder to quiet down. If the sound level remains high, the red light flashes and a recorded voice asks guests to lower their volume.

Nurses hope this device will help to reduce noise levels in the hospital and create a more peaceful environment for patients, families, and staff.

What can you do to improve noise awareness in your life? Would a device like this help to keep the noise level down in your school’s hallways or cafeteria?

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