New TSA rules go into effect Jan. 1, 2008 for carrying those lithium batteries that power your camera, notebook or cell phone.

The Transportation and Security Administration rules forbid travelers from from carrying loose lithium batteries in their checked baggage. Travelers will be allowed to carry two spare batteries in a carry-on bag, but they must be in clear plastic baggies. This rule applies to spare batteries, not to the batteries that are already in place in the device.

Loose lithium batteries supposedly pose a fire risk to airplanes, and are thought to be a possible cause of a fire in a plane last year.