A tip and suggestion on using any digital camera.

One of the most two important tips in my experience with digital cameras and the use of them is in the following.
When using a digital camera always take the time to put the hand cord on your wrist. This will help to insure that the camera will not be dropped when using any where, including over or near water. By the way, using any digital camera near water should be done carefully. Water is extremely damaging to the delicate internal parts.
When the digital camera is not in use, always be sure to put the camera in a padded case. I know that it takes more time than dropping into a purse or pocket, but if you take the extra time, you will enjoy your digital camera a lot longer.
By dropping a camera into a purse, you will take the chance of the unit being damaged by other items and possibly turning on from pressure of some item on the on button. This can cause the camera's lens to extend and since it is in a compact area, it can become damaged.
By putting the digital camera into a pocket, you take the chance of the camera falling out and being damaged. It is surprising how many cameras I have had which have been dropped and damaged.