Suspicious Packages
Do not open suspicious packages or envelopes. Call 911.
Examples of Inappropriate or Unusual Labeling
- Excessive postage
- Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
- Misspellings of common words
- Strange return address or no return address
- Incorrect titles or titles without name
- Not addressed to a specific person
- Marked with restrictions, such as "personal," "confidential," or "do not x-ray"
- Marked with threatening language
- Postmarked from a city of state that does not match return address
Examples of Suspicious Appearances
- Powdery substance on package or envelope
- Oil stains, discolorations or odor
- Lopsided or uneven envelopes
- Excessive packaging material such as masking tape, string, etc.
- Excessive weight
- Ticking or rattling sound
- Protruding wires
Handling Suspicious Packages or Envelopes
- Do not move, shake, bump or open.
- Do not carry/display or allow others to examine it.
- Do not sniff, touch or taste the item or any contents that may have spilled.
- Alert others in the area. Leave the area, close any doors and take action to prevent others from entering the area.
- If possible, turn off air conditioning or heating.
- Wash hands with soap and water to prevent spreading of potentially infectious material to face or skin. Seek additional healthcare instructions for others who may have been exposed.
- Create a list of persons who were in the room or area when the suspicious package or envelope arrived, and another list of those who may have handled it. Provide to local public health authorities and law enforcement officials.