How to Recognize
and Handle a Suspicious Package or Envelope
Identifying
Suspicious Packages and Envelopes
Some characteristics of suspicious packages and envelopes include the following:
nappropriate
or unusual labeling
Excessive
postage
Handwritten
or poorly typed addresses
Misspellings
of common words
Strange
return address or no return address
Incorrect
titles or title without a name
Not
addressed to a specific person
Marked
with restrictions, such as "Personal," "Confidential," or "Do
not x-ray"
Marked
with any threatening language
Postmarked
from a city or state that does not match the return address
Appearance
Powdery
substance felt through or appearing on the package or envelope
Oily
stains, discoloration, or odor
Lopsided
or uneven envelope
Excessive
packaging material such as masking tape, string, etc.
Other
suspicious signs
Excessive
weight
Ticking
sound
Protruding
wires or aluminum foil
If
a package or envelope appears suspicious, DO
NOT OPEN IT.
Handling of Suspicious Packages or Envelopes*
Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious package or envelope.
Do not carry the package or envelope, show it to others or allow others to
examine it. · Put the package or envelope down on a stable surface; do not
sniff, touch, taste, or look closely at it or at any contents which may have
spilled.
Alert others in the area about the suspicious package or envelope. Leave the
area, close any doors, and take actions to prevent others from entering the
area. If possible, shut off the ventilation system.
WASH hands with soap and water to prevent spreading potentially infectious
material to face or skin. Seek additional instructions for exposed or potentially
exposed persons.
If at work, notify a supervisor, a security officer, or a law enforcement official.
If at home, contact the local law enforcement agency.
If possible, create a list of persons who were in the room or area when this
suspicious letter or package was recognized and a list of persons who also
may have handled this package or letter. Give this list to both the local public
health authorities and law enforcement officials.
*These
recommendations were published on October 26, 2001, in "Update:
Investigation of bioterrorism-related anthrax and interim guidelines
for exposure management and antimicrobial therapy.”
