The International Imaging Industry Association (I3A) issued some helpful advice for air travellers flying over the Christmas holidays with digital storage media, photographic film and battery-powered electronic devices.
For more information visit: www.i3a.org ; www.tsa.gov
Unedited press release follows:
FOR SAFE TRAVEL, KEEP LITHIUM BATTERIES OUT OF CHECKED BAGS, ADVISES I3A
Digital Media Safe in Transit, but Hand Inspection of Single-Use Cameras Recommended
WAKEFIELD, Mass. – Dec. 19, 2011 – Air travelers should again be prepared for strict enforcement of regulations on flying with lithium batteries this holiday season, according to the International Imaging Industry Association (I3A; http://www.i3a.org), the leading global association for the imaging industry.
Loose lithium batteries – primary lithium digital camera batteries, lithium-ion types that power laptop computers, and some AA batteries — have been prohibited in U.S. checked baggage since January 1, 2008 due to their extreme flammability. Elsewhere in the world, regulations may be even more stringent. I3A advises transporting any spare lithium batteries in carry-on baggage only, for safety’s sake and to avoid possible confiscation of items from checked baggage and accompanying delays. Additional pointers and information can be found on the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) website.
“Lithium batteries can be highly flammable when they are outside the devices they power,” said I3A President Lisa Walker. “Cameras and other personal electronics are best carried with batteries installed and kept with you when traveling, for the safety of the equipment and fellow passengers. If you’re traveling with a single-use camera containing film, be sure you know the regulations and how to prevent damage before you make your way through airport security.”
Keeping Holiday Memories Safe in Transit
I3A also offers travelers advice on making sure that the precious holiday memories they capture, using digital media or single-use cameras containing film, arrive at home safely after passing through security scanners. Details are on the I3A website.
I3A’s recommendations are the result of joint research that the Integrity in Transportation of Imaging Products (ITIP) Committee conducted with the TSA on the X-ray machines and scanners used to inspect checked baggage and carry-on items.
Summary of I3A’s Advice:
• Lithium batteries – safe inside their devices in carry-on bags; spare batteries also safe in carry-ons if activation prevented; NOT allowed in checked baggage
• Digital cameras/media/camera phones – safe in carry-on or checked baggage
• DVDs and DVD players – safe in carry-on or checked baggage (but save your work in progress first)
• Any film product – NEVER safe in checked baggage; see the I3A website for specific recommendations
• After holiday trips, preserve digital images for long-term enjoyment of precious memories by following the steps at I3A’s educational website, http://www.savemymemories.org
About the International Imaging Industry Association (I3A)
I3A’s vision is to enable the use of imaging to simplify and enrich people’s lives through visual experiences that connect generations, communities, information and services. I3A drives the global imaging ecosystem toward this vision by bringing members together to create standards and collaborate on initiatives that advance shared interests, foster growth, and open pathways to new markets.