What is the situation?

Letters or packages may be considered suspicious if:

  • There is no return address.
  • It has hand-written restrictive markings, such as "PERSONAL!"
  • The address has:
    • Misspelled words
    • A title but not a person
    • An incorrect title
    • Is badly typed or handwritten
  • There are oily stains, discolorations or crystallizations on the outside.
  • It emits a strange odor.
  • It is sealed with an excessive amount of tape.
  • A package is lopsided or uneven.
  • The weight is odd for its size.

What should I do?

  1. Do not open it.
  2. Handle with care. Do not shake or bump.
  3. Isolate it immediately.
  4. Don't smell, touch or taste.
  5. Treat it as suspect.
  6. Evacuate the area and call 9-1-1 from a safe location.

If you suspect the mail may contain:

  • A bomb or explosive:
    • Evacuate immediately.
    • Call 9-1-1 from a safe location.
  • A radiological threat:
    • Limit exposure — do not handle.
    • Evacuate the area.
    • Shield yourself from object.
    • Call 9-1-1 from a safe location.
  • A biological or chemical threat:
    • Isolate — do not handle.
    • Evacuate the immediate area.
    • Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
    • Call 9-1-1 from a safe location.

If the letter or package has already been opened:

If the letter or package has already been opened, and a powder or other substance has spilled from the package or letter, do not clean it up. Leave it where it is, evacuate the area, wash your hands with soap and water and call 9-1-1 from any campus phone.