A Guide to Security Changes In the Western Hemisphere

American security requirements seem to change frequently. If you are a US citizen traveling the western hemisphere by air with your children, there area several things you need to know before you and your children leave the United States.

Starting January 23, 2007, most citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda will need to show their passport when entering or re-entering the US by airplane.

If traveling to or from the US from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, South America, Central America or the Caribbean you will be required to have your passport with you.

This includes children. Make sure you apply for your child's passport several months before your scheduled trip. The official processing time is 2 - 8 weeks, but sometimes it takes longer.

When you receive your passports, be sure to fill out the emergency information page for all family members. Make copies of your passports and leave the copies with a trusted friend or family member who is not traveling with you.

You and your children should carry your passport on your body at all times to avoid loss or theft. Additionally, have your child carry documents identifying you as their parent or guardian. Include your name, passport number, local telephone number, hotel information, home telephone number and the name, number and address of an emergency contact not traveling with you. This way, if you and you child become separated, local authorities have several ways to contact you.

Parents should consider carrying a current photo of each child traveling with them.

You can purchase special pouches especially for this purpose, or make your own. The identification pouch should lie across your body in such a way that it can not be easily taken from you. Always wear it under your clothes, next to your body.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you and your family are traveling, you can contact your country's Embassy or Consulate for assistance. However, obtaining replacement passports are costly and you may not be allowed to travel until you receive your replacement.

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