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May 22, 2008 1:01 pm US/Eastern

Air & Road Tips For Memorial Day Travelers

Click Here For The Latest Airport Info

MIAMI (CBS4) ― Fuel prices and economic uncertainty appear to be putting the brakes on travel over the Memorial Day holiday weekend but if you do plan to jet out of town for the weekend, you can decrease the amount of time waiting in security at airports by following a few tips from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration.

First, follow the 3-1-1 rule. All liquids, gels or sprays must fit in a clear plastic one-quart bag with a zip top. None of those items can hold more than three ounces, and only one bag is allowed per passenger. Prescription medications, baby formula and milk are allowed in larger quantities, and are not required to be in a zip-top bag.

The airport also encourages travelers to arrive at least two hours before departure for a domestic flight. One should get there three hours early for an international trip. Airport officials advise passengers to come early but be patient. They say travel volumes are heavier during holiday travel, and heightened security may increase the time you spend at checkpoints.

As for security measures, Greg Chin, spokesman for Miami International Airport, told CBS4 Sharrie Williams, "There is always the potential for someone to try something here with criminal intent so we always beef up security."

For more travel tips and a complete list of items prohibited from either carry-on or checked baggage, please click on the Transportation Security Administration Website or call its toll-free number at 1-866-289-9673.

If you're not traveling by plane but by car, the Florida Department of Transportation is reminding drivers they can save time and stay safe by using FDOT's free 511 Traffic Information Service.

South Florida's 511 gives detailed, real-time information on traffic conditions, construction updates and severe weather alerts on the region's most popular roads, including I-95, I-595, US 1 and Florida's Turnpike.

The 511 service is available from cell phones and landlines, and online at www.511SouthFlorida.com.

"We're pretty confident that we will see a very strong summer travel season," said Gregg Laskoski, Managing Director, Public & Government Relations for AAA Auto Club South. "So many people are determined to enjoy their leisure time that we are going to see strong travel numbers, regardless of what happens with gasoline prices."

Law enforcement officers agree that access to information on the 511 system can make the roadways safer for everyone. "With so many people traveling this weekend, just knowing about congestion and delays helps people stay calm and safe on the road." Sgt. Mark Wysocky of the Florida Highway Patrol said.

The service is completely bilingual, providing real-time traffic information in English and Spanish.

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