SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE

If you receive or discover a package or unknown device, do not touch it, tamper with it, or move it! Dial 9-1-1 immediately to report it to the police.

LETTER AND PARCEL BOMB RECOGNITION CHECKLIST

• Foreign mail, air mail and special deliveries
• Restrictive markings, such as “confidential” or “personal”
• Excessive postage
• Handwritten or poorly typed address
• Incorrect titles or titles with no names
• Misspellings of common words
• Oily stains or discoloration on the exterior
• Excessive weight
• Rigid, lopsided, or uneven envelopes or boxes
• Ticking sounds, protruding wires, or tinfoil
• Excessive tape or string
• Visual distractions
• No return address
• Powdery substance felt through or appearing on the item
• Strange odors

PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING SUSPICIOUS PACKAGES AND MAIL

• Stay calm.
• Do not open the letter or package (or open any further); do not shake it or show it to others.
• Set it down gently on a stable surface.
• If possible, gently cover the package or letter (use a trash can, article of clothing, etc.).
• Shut off any fans or equipment that may circulate the material.
• Leave the area, close doors, and prevent others from entering by posting signs or guarding the area, and avoid physical contact with others to minimize exposure.
• To prevent spreading of any powder or hazardous substance, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Others present when package was received should follow the same procedures.
• Contact the local police or Federal Protective Service immediately.

Back to Generic Content