NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Those who are traveling should remember the rules when it comes to doing so with a firearm, especially before they get to the airport.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) wants people to also remember to arrive early and know exactly what is in their bags.

“Passengers should pack for a trip starting with an empty bag to be sure they are not carrying prohibited items before they enter our checkpoints,” said TSA Federal Security Director for the State of Mississippi, Kim Jackson. “Make sure your firearm is not in your carry-on bag and also check that you do not have a pocketknife or other threats that are not permitted in the cabin of the aircraft.”

Many things that are not allowed in your carry-on can be kept in a checked bag, but things that are flammable, corrosive, or explosive cannot travel at all. Also, hand grenades, including replicas, cannot travel in a carry-on or checked bag.

When it comes to traveling with a firearm, it needs to be in checked luggage, unloaded, and in a locked hard-sided case. It needs to be declared to the airline at check-in.

Travelers are the ones who are responsible for being aware of firearm laws on both sides of their trip, or they could be cited or sent to jail since firearms may not be legal, even in checked bags, in some jurisdictions.

Many people who bring firearms to a federal security checkpoint are either arrested or issued court appearance notices. No matter the outcome, passengers face a civil penalty imposed by the TSA that can reach up to $15,000, and if they’re in the TSA PreCheck program, those privileges will be lost temporarily or permanently.

Since TSA is seeing record-breaking numbers, it’s important to arrive early and heed these tips for getting through security checkpoints efficiently and stress-free.

1. No firearms in carry-ons — they must be in checked baggage, as well as properly packed and declared .
2. Leave all prohibited items at home — pack everything yourself and use the “ What Can I Bring? ” link if you have questions.
3. Be ready at security — have a valid ID ready and follow the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels, and aerosols in the carry-on. Empty all pockets and put phones in the carry-on rather than a bin.
4. Help is available — get help by tweeting or messaging @TSA, you can also call them at (866) 289-9673.
5. Enroll in TSA PreCheck — passing through security checkpoints is simpler, plus memberships last for five years.

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