Tips to Get Through a Metal Detector Without it Alarming

Places such as airports and courthouses use different types of metal detectors with variations in sensitivity.  Meaning, you likely need to be more careful in what you wear and carry with you in hopes of going through a security check point quickly.  Sometimes places you visit  have specific instructions on what you should take off or leave behind before entering the establishment.  The following suggestions are additional areas of interest to consider that may help you go through the detector with little or no problems.

• Wear shoes that are easy to take off and put back on.  Some airports may not allow you to wear shoes with gel inserts. Buckles and straps with metal material may cause the alarm to go off.  Plus, if you need to take off your shoes the process will be easy for both yourself and the security guard.
• Try not to wear shirts with metal buttons or fasteners.  Wear pants that actually fit you to avoid wearing a belt, especially if it has a metal buckle.  Ladies may need to consider wearing a bra that doesn’t have an underwire as this can contribute to alarming the security metal detector.
• Leave jewelry at home if possible. Items such as cufflinks, rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches can make the detector go off.  You may be asked to take things off before being checked, so if you wear a lot of it, it may take a few extra minutes to take it off and put it back on.
• If your clothing is loose fitting, you may have to go through additional screening by security personnel if your clothes are too lose as if you are hiding something. If you are wearing layers, such as a jacket, coat or overcoat, you may need to remove them to have them checked through an x-ray machine.

Additional Tips and Suggestions

Before leaving for your destination, take time to empty your pockets from things that are likely to set off the detector such as keys, change, cell phones and other items.  Hair clips and jewelry can probably wait until you get at the checkpoint.  If you smoke, be sure to remove your lighter before being screened.  Some lighters may be approved to be carried at the airport and should have a DOT-approved case.

Keep in mind, if you travel to an airport in another country, their security measures may vary.  Take time to research their policies in what you can carry while traveling.  Some places such as airports may have a lengthier security procedure than establishments such as a school or courthouse.  It helps to keep items to a minimum when you know you will be required to pass through a metal detector.

These tips may be helpful during high travel times during the year such as holidays.  Since it can be a nuisance to walk through a detector and set it off with no weapon or sharp object, people are seeking ways to make security screening easier for themselves.