Reviewed on: April 29,2026

Can I Bring My Shoes and Inhaler When I Self-Surrender

I’m am checking myself in to the facility on January 21st. Are you allowed to wear your own shoes if they are white with velcro straps? Also I was concerned about having my inhaler. I have asthma and I use it daily. Will they allow me to bring it?

Asked: January 06, 2022
Author: Donna
Ask the inmate answer
1

Both should be fine.

White shoes with velcro straps are generally acceptable at federal facilities. The white color requirement exists at many camps and low-security institutions specifically to distinguish inmates from staff, and velcro is often preferred over laces for practical reasons. That said, confirm with the specific facility before you surrender, because each institution has its own property rules and what is allowed can vary.

On the inhaler, a documented medical need carries weight. Asthma is a legitimate condition, and facilities are required to provide medical care. When you self-surrender, disclose the asthma immediately and make sure you have documentation from your doctor. Whether they allow you to keep the inhaler on your person or require you to check in with medical for doses depends on the facility's protocol, but either way, they cannot simply ignore a daily medical necessity. Get it on the record from day one.

Arriving prepared and organized makes the intake process smoother. Bring only what is on the approved property list, have your medical documentation in hand, and be straightforward with staff during intake. Self-surrendering already puts you in a better position than most people arriving at a facility.

https://www.inmateaid.com/ask-the-inmate/can-i-bring-my-shoes-and-inhaler-when-i-self-surrender#answer
Accepted Answer Date Created: January 07,2022