Thanks to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (http://www.snowmobilers.org for this alert.
With the high alert of avalanche conditions, it is important to be prepared before you head out.
There have been studies that show cell phones can interfere with transceivers when transmitting/riding. It may be best to leave cell phones turned off or in the airplane mode and keep them in a backpack or somewhere far from your beacon.
Interference may also occur when searching—be sure you extend the beacon completely from your body.
Beware of interference from other electronics such as a GPS, SPOT, satellite phones and radios as well.
There is additional information on the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center blog:
http://www.mtavalanche.com/blog/do-phones-interfere-avalanche-beacons
http://www.mtavalanche.com/blog/electronic-halo-might-have-horns-batteries-beacons-and-smartphones