Dealing with Suspicious Mail and Packages

In the weeks after the hijackings of 11 September 2001, there were a number of confirmed cases of anthrax exposure through items sent through the mail. Because some of the packages were sent outside of the U.S., the entire world is a potential target of similar attacks. It is not clear if the anthrax attacks were related to the earlier hijacking events, but it is clear that the potential threat can be overcome through a few basic security procedures. The following advice can help you safely deal with suspicious letters or packages that may be sent to you.

Characteristics of Suspicious Letters or Packages

  • Has any powdery substance on the outside
  • It is unexpected or from someone unfamiliar to you
  • Has excessive postage
  • It is addressed using incorrect titles or titles with no name, or has misspellings of common words
  • The writing or typing is sloppy or uneven
  • Is addressed to someone no longer with your organization or are otherwise outdated
  • Have no return address, or has one that can't be verified as legitimate
  • Is of unusual weight, given their size, or are lopsided or oddly shaped
  • Has an unusual amount of tape
  • Is marked with restrictive endorsements, such as "Personal" or "Confidential"
  • Shows a city or location in the postmark that does not match the return address
  • Has strange odors or stains.

What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Letter or Package

  • Handle it with care and avoid shaking it or bumping it
  • Isolate the letter or package
  • Evacuate the area
  • If your clothes are contaminated, carefully remove them and isolate them
  • Contact the appropriate emergency organization (fire, police, medical, HAZMAT unit etc.)
  • Contact the appropriate postal organization or shipping service.
Advice for Any Letter or Package

  • Do not smell or taste the letter, package, or contents
  • Dispose of any normal mail that you do not open
  • Do not allow children to open mail
  • Keep mail away from food preparation areas

Other Resources
Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents
Dealing with In-Flight Biological and Chemical Threats
U.S. Postal Service


Dealing with Suspicious Mail and Packages
http://airsafe.com/events/war/mailtips.htm -- Revised: 29 May 2008