Riding Metra during NATO? Security Says 'No' to Lattes, 'OK' to Breast Milk

As Chicago gears up for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit at McCormick Place, Metra has stepped up security throughout its rail system, including the Southwest and Rock Island lines.

From May 19 through May 21, riders will face security screenings and restrictions on what they can carry on to trains while global leaders are in town for the NATO summit, Metra announced Monday.

You may also want to ditch the latte. Riders will be prohibited from carrying food or beverages on the train, including coffee. However, breast milk can be carried on a train but is subject to inspection and should be declared if you’re being screened.

Riders may also see increased police presence and perhaps even a bomb- sniffing dog or two.

The following safety measures apply to all Metra lines this coming weekend, including:

1. Riders may be subject to search and/or screening before boarding the train or while in en route.
2. Riders may carry only one bag not exceeding 15 square inches and 4 inches deep.
3. Riders may not carry any food on the train. Liquids and personal effects (such as makeup) must be less than three ounces in size. This includes coffee and other beverages. Breast milk can be carried but is subject to inspection and should be declared during any screening.
4. Riders may not cay any type of tools, pipes, stakes, wood or weapons, including pocketknives and pepper spray, on the trains.
5. Law enforcement officers must identify themselves and present their credentials and any weapons. Private security guards will not be allowed to carry any weapons onboard.

Failure to comply with these safety measures or instructions from police officers or attempting to avoid security screenings may result in ejection from the train or arrest.

For more information on NATO and local security measures, read: