Suspicious packages – Get prepared

How to identify a suspicious package

The following might help in identifying a suspicious package:

• A missing or unfamiliar return address
• Unsolicited mail or packages from an unexpected source country
• Excessive postage
• Addressed to a business title, such as "President"
• Restrictive markings such as do not X-ray, do not open, confidential, or careful when moving
• Unusual or illegible labels
• Noticeably misspelled words
• Poor or illegible writing or typeset
• Overstuffed or bulky envelopes
• Lopsided, unbalanced, or uneven packaging
• Excessive wrapping tape or string
• Strange smell or noise
• Noticeable oil stains, discoloration, powdered substances, or any other suspicious identifiable markers
• Protruding wires or foil
• Leaking fluids

The contents of a letter or package may cause concern if

• There are visible signs of a powder or a liquid
• It contains a threatening note or is received following a threat
• It contains an object that you did not expect to receive or cannot identify

If you are worried about a package or letter you have received

• Call 9-1-1
• Do not handle, shake, smell, or taste it
• Leave the letter or package where it is and secure the area as best you can
• Take a photograph of the package prior to leaving a secured area. This will assist police in dealing with the package
• Get everyone out of the room, but leave the doors and windows open in the event of an explosion since keeping the doors and windows open could help dissipate the blast
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Wait in a safe place until your local first responders arrive

If hazardous materials are suspected

• Leave the package where it is
• Leave the contents where you found them and secure the area as best you can
• If a chemical, biological, or radiological contaminant is suspected due to the presence of unknown powders or liquids, make sure that everyone leaves the room and closes the door
• Those who touched the package and may have been exposed to the contaminant. Remove any affected clothing and seal it in a plastic bag
• Wash your hands, or shower with soap and water
• Alert the authorities. Call 9-1-1
• If possible, turn off the HVAC system for the room where the package/letter is located
• Wait in a safe place until your local first responders have arrived

In the event of any situation involving a suspicious package, first responders, or public health authorities will provide further instructions. Follow their direction.