ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND AIRLINE SECURITY
By Laura Quarantiello
® Tiare Publications Group
314 words
The next time you fly don't be surprised if your laptop, camera and
any other electronic devices you're carrying get extra scrutiny from
the security people. The Department of Homeland Security is expected
to advise airport screeners to pay special attention to electronic
devices that could be used in a terrorist attack. Local, state and
federal officials are also being asked to take a careful look at
electronics which might conceal weapons or be altered to make them
function as weapons. Although government officials deny knowledge of
any plots involving disguised weapons, they say prototype weapons
were found in an al Qaeda safe house overseas, includi9ng camera
flash units modified to hide stun guns or hold explosives. This,
along with information from a captured al Qaeda operative prompted
the warning.
International travelers bound for the U.S. will see the closest
screening, not only of electronic gear but toys, clothing and shoes
as well. A little known (and now corrected) loophole allowing
international travelers to lay over in the U.S. without a visa was
singled out as a possible entry route for terrorists.
So, what can you do to minimize the inconvenience of the new security
posture? Here are a few quick tips:
If you are carrying a laptop, remove it from its case prior to
arriving at the security checkpoint. Make sure the battery is charged
and that it's ready to be powered up in case security screeners
request it.
Have your camera in a separate bag, ready for inspection. Remove the
film before sending the bag through x-ray machines. If possible leave
your cameras unloaded to make it easier for security to check them
Cell phones and PDAs should be in hand or easily available in a
handbag or briefcase so they can be quickly produced for inspection.
All electronic items should be fully charged and ready to be turned
on if requested.
(End)
Laura Quarantiello is the author of "Air-ways û The Insider's Guide
to Air Travel" û everything you need to know about the ups and downs
of getting there by air. This book is as useful as a boarding pass!
More at:
http://www.tiare.com/airways.htm
