St. Thomas – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has highlighted security procedures ahead of the busy Carnival travel period and reminded travelers to keep in mind the following advice to help make their trip through the airport as efficient and comfortable as possible.
Arrive on time. Remember to leave adequate time to check baggage and move through security. The TSA recommends arriving at least two hours before flight departure time.
Remember new rules: any electronic item larger than a cell phone must be removed from your bag and placed in a bin at the checkpoint with nothing on top of it or below it. Remove food as well. These efforts will allow TSA officers to better screen both what is in the bin and what is in your suitcase. These procedures will also reduce the likelihood of a bag search. And no one likes a bag search.
Pay attention to the ongoing 3-1-1 rule: Liquids, gels and aerosols are permitted in 3.4-ounce containers, placed in a 1-quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag, one bag per traveler. If you can pour it, pump it, squeeze it, spread it, smear it, spray it or spill it, it’s subject to these limits. Tamarind and cherry stews are considered liquids and gels. Items greater than 3.4 ounce, including the stews and duty-free alcohol and perfume bought before you go through security, should be placed in checked baggage. Breast milk and medically necessary liquids like baby formula and insulin are permitted in your carryon, but it must be declared to a security officer at the checkpoint before you begin the screening process.
Dress the Part. Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) have to resolve any anomaly detected at the checkpoint. If travelers alarm when passing through a metal detector or advanced imaging technology unit, additional screening will be required. TSA strongly recommends removing all items from pockets, as well as certain accessories, including wallet, belt, bulky jewelry, money, keys and cell phone. Removing all of these items will reduce the chance of needing additional screening after exiting the machine. To reduce stress, place those items into your carry-on bags – not into bins – before sending them through the X-ray machines. Also, please remove shoes before entering the screening technology and put them directly on the belt to go through the X-ray machine instead of in a bin with other items.
Have the Following Ready. Passengers should be prepared to present their own boarding pass and a valid federal or state issued government photo ID, such as a valid driver’s license or passport with your name as it appears on your boarding pass.
TSA reminds travelers to be vigilant during the carnival travel season by reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement. The traveling public plays an important role in security.
For more information on these and other helpful tips, visit www.tsa.gov.