Having your cell phone stolen doesn't just cut you off from your preferred method of communication.  Cell phone theft can also cost you your appointment book, your camera, your contact information, and your personal information.

When you first get a cell phone, there are some steps you'll want to take immediately to minimize the harm should your cell phone be stolen.  First, lock your cell phone with a password containing random letters and numbers.

Second, remember that most people purchase a cell phone cheaply as part of a package deal of signing up with a cell phone provider.  A replacement phone can be quite costly.  Therefore, it's wise to purchase cell phone replacement insurance.

Third, while you are purchasing cell phone replacement insurance, why not consider purchasing identity theft insurance as well?  It's available through most major insurance companies, the premiums are very reasonable, and having the insurance can save you a huge headache if your cell phone and subsequently your identity are stolen.

Finally, don't rely completely on your cell phone to store contact information and important dates.  Keep a written record as well.

If a victim of cell phone theft, try not to panic.  Don't fight the thief--no phone is worth your life.  As soon as you safely can, report the cell phone theft to the police, to your cell phone company, and to your insurance companies.

Having your cell phone stolen can leave you feeling scared, shaking, and off-balance, but with a little preparation, you can minimize the effect cell phone theft has on your life.