As the busy summer travel season gets underway, more than 200 million people are expected to travel this season. TSA reminds passengers to prepare for the airport security check-in process before arriving at the airport. Passengers who are prepared for security before they reach the checkpoint help make the process easier for themselves and other passengers. In an effort to alleviate confusion at the security checkpoint, it is important to remember the following tips:

• 3-1-1 for liquids: Carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in 3-ounce or smaller containers placed in a 1-quart, clear, plastic, zip-top baggie, and adhere to the limit of one bag per passenger, placed in a plastic bin for screening.
• Check for prohibited items: Fireworks contain explosives: these materials are prohibited throughout the year in carry-on and checked baggage. Firearms are prohibited in carry-on baggage. Firearms in check-baggage need to be declared with the aircraft operator and ensure it is locked inside a hard-sided container.
• 3 Simple Steps: Prepare for security by having your ID and boarding pass out, remove liquids and laptops from your carry-on baggage, and remember to remove shoes and jackets.
• Wear easy removable footwear: The traveling public is encouraged to wear footwear that can be easily removed.

As part of TSA’s risk-based security approach, the agency has implemented changes in screening protocols that strengthen aviation security by better focusing its resources and, at the same time, improving the travel experience for lower risk passengers. Summer travelers may be able to take advantage of these modifications at airports across the country.

The changes include the implementation last fall of modified screening procedures for passengers 12 and younger. Passengers 12 and younger can now leave their shoes on during security screening. These new screening procedures also include permitting an additional pass through advanced imaging technology to clear any alarms, as well as greater use of explosives trace detection.

TSA anticipates these changes will further reduce – though not eliminate – the need for a physical pat-down for these passengers. The agency reminds travelers that they may be required to remove their shoes or undergo a pat-down if anomalies are detected during security screening that cannot be resolved through other means.

Last fall, the agency also launched TSA Pre✓™. To date, TSA Pre✓™ has provided expedited screening to more than one million passengers and is currently available at 15 airports, with plans to expand to more airports and airlines throughout 2012.

Passengers are encouraged to use the “Can I Bring…” feature on the TSA homepage to verify items permitted through the security checkpoint. Smartphone users can easily download the “MyTSA” app to quickly find helpful information about TSA policies and procedures.

As an added convenience, the TSA Contact Center (TCC) recently extended its hours, and representatives are now available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. Eastern time, and weekends and federal holidays, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern time. Passenger can contact the TCC with questions about TSA procedures, upcoming travel or to provide feedback or voice concerns. The TCC can be reached at 866-289-9673.

Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227, 72 hours prior to traveling with any questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. A TSA Cares helpline representative is available during all TSA Contact Center hours.