Handling Suspicious Mail

Hazardous agents can be enclosed in either a package or an envelope, and its outward appearance is limited only by the imagination of the perpetrator. However, some unique characteristics may assist the identification of a suspect mailing.

Things to Remember When Receiving Mail

• Mail bombs may bear restricted endorsements such as "personal" or "private."
• Addressee's name or title may be inaccurate.
• Return address may be fictitious or not available.
• Hazardous mail may have distorted handwriting or the name may be prepared with homemade labels or cut and paste lettering.
• Cancellation or postmark may show a different location than the return address.
• Hazardous mail may have excessive postage.
• Letter bombs may feel rigid, or appear uneven or lopsided.
• Package bombs may be unprofessionally wrapped with several combinations of tape used to secure the package and may be endorsed "fragile-handle with care" or "rush-do not delay."
• Hazardous mail may have an irregular shape, soft spots, or bulges.
• Hazardous mail may make a sloshing sound. Although placed devices may buzz or tick, mailed bombs generally do not.
• Pressure or resistance may be noted when removing contents from an envelope or package.

If you are suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents

• Do not open.
• Isolate the mailing and evacuate the immediate area.
• Do not put it in water or a confined space such as a desk drawer or filing cabinet.
• If possible, open windows in the immediate area to assist in venting potential explosive gases.
• If you have any reason to believe a letter or package is suspicious, do not take a chance or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent. Contact the Department of Public Safety.

If I receive an anthrax threat by mail

• Do not handle the mail piece or package suspected of contamination.
• Make sure that damaged or suspicious packages are isolated and the immediate area cordoned off.
• If possible try to identify all of the people who may have come into contact with the suspicious mail.
• Ensure that all persons who have touched the piece of mail wash their hands with soap and water.
• Contact the Department of Public Safety.