Suspicious Packages or Mail
Suspicious Mail Indicators
Suspicious Mail Indicators
Look for the following on any packages or mail received:
- Unusual or unknown place of origin
- No return address
- Excessive amount of postage
- Abnormal size or shape
- Protruding strings
- Aluminum foil
- Wires
- Misspelled words
- Differing return address and postmark
- Handwritten labels
- Unusual odor
- Unusual or unbalanced weight
- Springiness in the top or bottom
- Inflexibility
- Crease marks
- Discoloration or oily stains
- Incorrect titles or title with no name
- Excessive security material
- Ticking, beeping, or other sounds
- Special instruction markings, such as "personal, rush, do not delay, or confidential"
Powder/Contaminant Awareness
Powder/Contaminant Awareness
Be vigilant for evidence of powder or other contaminants.
Critical Don'ts
Critical Don'ts
NEVER cut tape, strings, or other wrappings on a suspect package.
Containment
Containment
If the package has been moved, place the package in a plastic bag to prevent any leakage of contents.
Hand Washing
Hand Washing
If handling mail suspected of containing chemical or biological contaminants, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Reporting and Personnel List
Reporting + Personnel List
Report suspicious mail immediately and:
- Make a list of personnel who were in the room when the suspicious envelope or package was identified