Security Clampdown Hits Film And Pointy Things

Film...

The post-September 11 security clampdown in the US particularly, means that new high-intensity scanners are being installed in many airports to scan checked luggage - in other words rucksacks and cases that you don't carry with you.

The bad news is that these can cause damage to un-used or un-processed film according to this Kodak news update so either get your film processed before you fly or carry it as cabin baggage. Kodak say that you should make life easier for airport security staff by carrying the undeveloped film in a transparent plastic bag. Whatever you do, don't pack any film in your hold baggage.

The X-Ray scanners used to assess passengers and carry-on baggage shouldn't affect film, however small numbers of passengers are being subjected to high intensity scans away from the main scanners and if this happens to you, ask for inspection by hand.

... and pointy things

You should also be aware of new strictness governing carry-on items has implications for climbers. Obviously stuff like pocket knives and ice axes are out, but pretty much anything that could be used as a weapon or has a point is also likely to be confiscated, which also includes trekking poles. So, if you're in the habit of carrying your climbing rack as weight-limit dodging hand luggage, take out those ice screws beforehand and what about nut keys? And, er, baseball bats?

The full list reads:

• knives of any length, composition or description
• cutting instruments of any kind, including carpet knives and box cutters
• any device with a folding or retractable blade
• other sharp instruments, including ice picks, straight razors, metal scissors, and metal nail files
• corkscrews
• baseball/softball bats
• golf clubs
• pool cues
• ski poles
• hockey sticks