Recommendations for Handling Suspicious
Letters or Packages

• Inappropriate or unusual labeling, such as
  • 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
• Unusual Appearance
  • Powdery substance felt through or appearing on the package or envelope
  • Oily stains, discolorations, 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.
• If possible, put the package or envelope in a plastic bag to prevent leakage of the contents. If a bag or container is not available, cover the envelope with a trash can or box.
• Do not sniff, touch, taste, or look closely at it or at any contents that may have spilled.
• Alert others in the area about the suspicious item. Leave the area, close any doors, and take actions to prevent others from entering. Shut off fans and the ventilation system.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Notify your local law enforcement agency or follow other procedures established for this situation. If at work, also notify your supervisor.
• Make a list of everyone who was in the room or area when this suspicious letter or package was recognized and a list of those who may have handled this package or letter. Give this list to law enforcement officials and local public health authorities.