Reblogging because this is apparently a hot topic in the DOC today. Between this and Kerri’s post, I don’t think I need to add any more to the conversation, other than I’m right there with them. I’ve had my own share of TSA experiences with my insulin pump and am dreading the addition of my wireless CGM. Thankfully, I don’t fly a ton anymore but I can’t avoid the occasional trip outside my home state.
The only way to make changes is to spread awareness of the issue. I don’t feel I need to justify my required devices to a government agency umpteen times every time I fly. I’m all for safer plane trips, but at least make it consistent. Don’t tell me to just throw my pump on the conveyor belt because it’s safe for YOUR XRay machine. (Nevermind Medtronic has stated that this is not appropriate.)
Through TSA’s layered approach to security, and to align more closely with International Civil Aviation Organization standards, effective April 25, 2013 TSA will allow knives that do not lock, and have blades that are 2.36 inches or 6 centimeters or less in length and are less than 1/2 inch in width, novelty-sized and toy bats, billiard cues, ski poles, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks and two golf clubs as part of their carry-on baggage. This is part of an overall Risk-Based Security approach, which allows Transportation Security Officers to better focus their efforts on finding higher threat items such as explosives. – Statement on the TSA’s website
Apparently insulin pumps and CGMs fall under the “higher threat items” these days.
I’ve flown a lot in the last 20 years.
Pre-9/11, you could sprint down the concourse to your gate, wheezing loudly as you handed your ticket while hiking your overstuffed carry-on…
View original post 960 more words
See Jen Dance 