Safety & Security Tips

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Traveler Safety and Security Tips

SECURITY
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) handles all of the baggage and passenger screening at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. TSA is pleased to help passengers prepare to travel through the airport. A passenger who knows how to pack and what to wear is going to help keep the lines moving without delay.

BAGGAGE SCREENING
You should arrive at the airport at least one hour prior to your flight departure (90 minutes prior early AM). Check in with the airline first. It is important that you do not lock your bags. TSA sometimes need a little extra sense of security. If you feel you need to lock your bag, make sure the lock is TSA-approved. Click here to see TSA "Accepted and Recognized" locks.

PASSENGER SCREENING
At the passenger security checkpoint, you will place all carry-on baggage and any items you are carrying with you on the belt of the X-ray machine. You will need to lay all items flat.

NOTE: TSA will screen any carry-on baggage that will fit through the X-ray machine, however, it is up to each individual air carrier as to whether the baggage fits the size restrictions for your flight. Please check with the air carrier prior to proceeding through the security checkpoints.

Laptop computers and video cameras with cassettes must be removed from their carrying cases and placed in one of the bins provided. You will also need to remove your coat, jacket, suit jacket or blazer and place it in one of the bins. These items go through the X-ray machine.

Just remember "IN - OUT - OFF"!

Place all metal items IN your carry-on baggage before you reach the front of the line.
Take your computer and video cameras with cassettes OUT of their carrying case and place them in one of the bins provided.
Take OFF your coat or jacket so that it can go through the X-ray machine. This includes, but is not limited to, trench coats, heavy winter coats, suit jackets, sport coats, and blazers.

TSA Shoe Screening Policy

You ARE REQUIRED to remove your shoes before you enter the walk-through metal detector. All types of footwear must be screened, if you do not follow the Security Officers, you will not be able to board your flight.

TIP: Since a thorough screening includes X-ray inspection of footwear, wearing footwear that is easily removable helps to speed you through the screening process.

For complete up to date information, please go to www.TSATravelTips.us. Below is a list of time saving tips to speed your trip!

TSA would like to help you get through the security checkpoint quickly and have a safe flight to your destination. The Transportation Security Officers will be working around the clock to provide an efficient security process. You are asked to become an active partner in your security experience by knowing the rules and carefully packing your carry-on bags.

Pack smart to get through faster. Keep luggage organized by layering items; this will increase visibility for the security officers. When approaching the checkpoint, be prepared. Boarding pass and ID should be ready for inspection, outer garments and shoes must come off, any loose metal items should be placed in your carry-on, and all liquids must come out of bags. All liquids must be kept in the 3-1-1 format unless needed for special medical purposes.

How?

Here's how to SimpliFLY your overall security experience:

Pack an organized carry-on bag using layers a layer of clothes, then electronic, more clothes, and then any heavier items. This will help security officers see what's in your bag.
Have your boarding pass and ID ready for inspection when you get to the checkpoint.
Remove your coat and shoes and place them in a bin.
Place any oversized electronics (laptops, full-size video game consoles, DVD players and video cameras that use cassettes) in a separate bin. iPods and other smaller electronics can stay in your carry-on bag.
Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and put your one quart baggie separately in the bin.
When in doubt, leave it out. If you're not sure about whether you can bring an item through the checkpoint, put it in your checked bag or leave it at home. Click here to see the list of prohibited items.

Pack Simply To Fly Through Security

The images below show a group of items packed two ways: the items on the left are packed neatly and the items on the right are loose and cluttered. In these images, you can clearly see what all the items are, but Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) don't see your bag like this - they see an X-ray image on a screen, and they have to quickly determine if your bag contains a potential threat. You know you're not a threat, but TSOs don't know you, and seemingly innocent items can actually appear to be potential threats in an X-ray image, simply by the way they're packed.

How You Can Help TSA at the Airport

Arrive on time. Arrival time recommendations vary by airline and day of travel, so check with your carrier. A boarding pass and valid government photo ID are required to enter the security checkpoint. Remember to give yourself adequate time to check your baggage and move through security.
Do not wrap gifts. If a security officer needs to inspect a package they may have to unwrap your gift. Please wait to wrap gifts until you're at your destination.
Pets. Please remove all animals from their carrying cases and send the case through the X-ray machine. Hold your pet in your arms and proceed through the metal detector.
Children. Please take your infants and children out of baby carriers and strollers and take them through the metal detector with you. Strollers and baby carriers go through the X-ray machine with your bags. If possible, collapse your stroller before you get to the metal detector.
Dress the part. Metal in your clothing may set off the screening machines. Pack coins, keys, jewelry, belt buckles and other metal items in your carry-on bag. Remember that all shoes must be removed and placed in bins. Passengers also need to remove winter coats, blazers, suit coats and bulky sweaters.
Film. Undeveloped film and cameras with film should go in your carry-on bag. Declare film that is faster than 800-speed to a security officer for physical inspection to avoid being X-rayed.
When in doubt, leave it out. Bringing prohibited items to the airport will delay the screening process for you and other passengers. If you're not sure which items are allowed, check TSA's Web site for a complete list: Permitted and Prohibited Items.
Think before you speak. Belligerent behavior, inappropriate jokes and threats will not be tolerated. They will result in delays and possibly missing your flight. Local law enforcement may be called as necessary.

Have a safe trip and enjoy your flight!

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES & MEDICAL CONDITIONS

One of the primary goals of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is to provide the highest level of security and customer service to all who pass through the screening checkpoints. Current policies and procedures focus on ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their personal situations and needs, are treated equally and with the dignity, respect, and courtesy they deserve. Although every person and item must be screened before entering each secure boarding area, it is the manner in which the screening is conducted that is most important.

In order to achieve that goal, TSA has established a program for screening of persons with disabilities and their associated equipment, mobility aids, and devices. The program covers all categories of disabilities (mobility, hearing, visual, and hidden). As part of that program, a coalition of over 70 disability-related groups and organizations was established to help TSA understand the concerns of persons with disabilities and medical conditions. These groups have assisted TSA with integrating the unique needs of persons with disabilities into TSA's airport operations.

Since the initial total ban on liquids, gels and aerosols took effect, TSA has learned enough from the UK investigation to say with confidence that small, travel size liquids are safe to bring through security checkpoints in limited numbers. TSA is confident in their increased security measures throughout the airport. Therefore, passengers can purchase drinks in the secure boarding area and bring them aboard their flights.

TSA's checkpoint security screening procedures for persons with disabilities and medical conditions have not changed as a result of the current threat situation. All disability-related equipment, aids, and devices continue to be allowed through security checkpoints once cleared through screening.

Additionally, TSA is continuing to permit prescription liquid medications and other liquids needed by persons with disabilities and medical conditions. This includes:

All prescription and over-the-counter medications (liquids, gels, and aerosols) including KY jelly, eye drops, and saline solution for medical purposes;
Liquids including water, juice, or liquid nutrition or gels for passengers with a disability or medical condition;
Life-support and life-sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs;
Items used to augment the body for medical or cosmetic reasons such as mastectomy products, prosthetic breasts, bras or shells containing gels, saline solution, or other liquids; and,
Gels or frozen liquids needed to cool disability or medically related items used by persons with disabilities or medical conditions.

However, if the liquid medications are in volumes larger than 3 oz. each, they may not be placed in the quart-size bag and must be declared to the Transportation Security Officer. A declaration can be made verbally, in writing, or by a person's companion, caregiver, interpreter, or family member.

Declared liquid medications and other liquids for disabilities and medical conditions must be kept separate from all other property submitted for x-ray screening.

For more information on these measures, please read the letter outlining this policy -- Changes in Allowances for Persons with Disabilities at Airport Security Checkpoints

Disability-related items permitted through the security checkpoint include:

Wheelchairs
Scooters
Crutches
Canes
Walkers
Prosthetic devices
Casts
Support braces
Support appliances
Service animals
Baby apnea monitors
Orthopedic shoes
Exterior medical devices
Assistive/adaptive equipment
Augmentation devices
Ostomy supplies
CPAP machines & respirators
Hearing aids
Cochlear implants
Tools for wheelchair disassembly/reassembly
Personal supplemental oxygen
CO2 personal oxygen concentrators
Tools for prosthetic devices
Medications and associated supplies
Braille note takers
Slate and stylus
All diabetes related medication, equipment, and supplies
Any other disability-related equipment and associated supplies

Please refer to the links below to assist you as you make travel preparations:

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN

Every person, regardless of age (even babies), must undergo screening before they can go through the security checkpoint.

You will not be asked to do anything that will separate you from your child or children.

TSA specially trains their Security Officers and they understand your concern for your children. Security Officers will approach your children gently and treat them with respect. If your child becomes uncomfortable or upset, Security Officers will consult you about the best way to relieve your child's concern.

NEVER leave babies in an infant carrier while it goes through the X-ray machine.

The Screening Process

At the X-Ray

All carry-on baggage, including children's bags and items, must go through the X-ray machine. Examples include: diaper bags, blankets and toys.
All child-related equipment that will fit through the X-ray machine must go through the X-ray machine. Examples include: strollers, umbrella-strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats, backpacks, and baby slings.
When you arrive at the checkpoint, collapse or fold your child-related equipment. Secure items that are in the pockets, baskets or attached to the equipment, and place it on the X-ray belt for inspection. Plastic bins are provided to deposit such items.
If any of your child-related equipment does not fit through the X-ray machine, Security Officers will visually and physically inspect it.
Ask a Security Officer for help gathering your bags and child-related equipment, if you need it.

The Walk-Through Metal Detector

If your child can walk without your assistance, it is recommended that you and your child walk through the metal detector separately. If you are carrying your child through the metal detector and the alarm sounds, a Security Officer will have to additionally screen both you and your child.

Remove babies and children from their strollers or infant carriers so that Security Officers can screen them individually.
You may not pass the child to another person behind you or in front of you during this process.
Do not pass your child to the Security Officer to hold.
The Security Officer may ask for your help screening your child.

Travel Tips

Before You Reach the Airport

Please allow yourself and your family extra time to get through security - especially when traveling with younger children.
Call your airline or travel agent for their recommended check-in times for your departure airport.
Talk to your children before you come to the airport and let them know that it's against the law to make threats such as, "I have a bomb in my bag." Threats made jokingly (even by a child) can delay the entire family and could result in fines.

At the Airport

Speak to your children again about the screening process so that they will not be frightened or surprised. Remind them to not joke about threats such as bombs or explosives.
Tell your children that their bags (backpack, dolls, etc.) will be put in the X-ray machine and will come out at the other end and be returned to them.
Let your children know that a Security Officer may ask to see their shoes, but that they will get these back, as well.
You may want to consider asking for a private screening if you are traveling with more than one child.

Children with a Disability

Parents or guardians of children with disabilities should...

Inform the Security Officer if the child has any special needs or medical devices.
Inform the Security Officer if you think the child may become upset during the screening process as a result of their disability.
Offer suggestions on how to best accomplish the screening to minimize any confusion or outburst for the child.
Ask the Security Officer for assistance during the process by helping you put your and the child's carry-on items on the X-ray belt.
Know that at no time during the screening process will you be separated from your child.
Know that if a private screening is required, you should escort and remain with your child during the private screening process.
Tell the Security Officer what are your child's abilities are. For example: can the child stand slightly away from equipment to be hand-wanded, walk through the metal detector, or needs to be carried through the metal detector by the parent/guardian.
Know that all no time should the Security Officer remove your child from his/her mobility aid (wheelchair or scooter). You are responsible for removing your child from his/her equipment at your discretion to accomplish screening.
Know that if your child is unable to walk or stand, the Security Officer will conduct a pat-down search of your child while he/she remains in their mobility aid, as well as a visual and physical inspection of their equipment.

Contact TSA

If you would like to pass on any positive feedback or concerns to TSA regarding your experience, feel free to contact a screener supervisor while you're at the airport.

You may also contact the TSA Contact Center by e-mailing TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov.

TSA takes all input very seriously and will respond promptly and appropriately to all complaints or comments.

Customer Service Procedures:

TSA Screeners
A primary goal of TSA is to treat all passengers with courtesy, dignity, and respect during the security screening processes. In support of this goal, TSA has trained its screeners in the proper treatment of passengers and their belongings. That specialized training includes accommodating passengers with special needs. We have conducted outreach to religious and disability organizations to ensure that our screeners are sensitive to all passengers.

The Process
TSA has established procedures to minimize the intrusiveness of the screening process for passengers. Though you may be unfamiliar with some of these changes please be assured that they are all based on sound security protocol.

Private Screening
Your screening may include a hand-wanding procedure and pat-down inspection. You may request a private area for your personal screening. The private area will either be a separate room or an area out of the view of the general public.

Same-Gender Screening
If you are asked to undergo a personal screening you will be provided a screener of the same gender except in extraordinary circumstances. In some cases you may have to wait for a screener of your gender to conduct the screening. You will be advised if the wait will be more than a few minutes.

Private Baggage Screening
If it is necessary to open your checked or carry-on baggage, TSA will make every effort to do so discretely. At most airports there are tables with sidewalls to protect your privacy.

TIP: We recommend that you think carefully about what private items you place in your carry-on or checked baggage since your baggage may be opened and searched.

Passengers with Disabilities or Medical Concerns
If you have a disability medical concern or other special circumstance please refer to the Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions section of the TSA website for details on what you can expect at the passenger security checkpoint.

You are encouraged to communicate with the screener both before and during the screening process so that the screener is aware of your situation at all times.

While the procedure may differ slightly in order to accommodate your situation the same level and rigor of screening that is maintained for all passengers will be maintained.

Discrimination

If you believe that you have been discriminated against by a Transportation Security Administration employee on the basis of: race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation, you may submit in writing an explanation of the complaint, including: the name of the airport, your flight information, date/time of the incident, and, if possible, the name of the employee to:

Transportation Security Administration
Director, Office of Civil Rights
601 South 12th Street West Tower, TSA-6
Arlington, VA 22202
Attn: External Programs Division

If you need additional information, you may contact the Office of Civil Rights toll-free at 1-877-EEO-4TSA (4872). If you leave your name, number and best time to call you back, someone will return your call.

Safety Reminder

Do not leave bags unattended. Unattended bags will be immediately confiscated and may be destroyed. Report any unattended items to airport personnel immediately.