Emergency Procedures: A SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE
Consider the specific circumstances when evaluating the following signs. The presence of one characteristic may not necessarily mean a package is dangerous, but if in doubt, call SUSCC Police.
General Tips
- Remain calm
- Stay away from the package; DO NOT allow anyone to handle or go near the package
- If a suspicious package is discovered while handling, avoid dropping, throwing, or any other abrupt movement; gently set the package down in a secluded area that has been evacuated
- DO NOT use any cell phones, radios, or other wireless devices around the package
Call SUSCC Police or 911 (depending on the situation)
- State the location of the package and provide a description
- Stay on the phone until released by the dispatcher
- If you touched the package, immediately wash your hands, arms, etc. with soap and water for 15 minutes
Characteristics of a Suspicious Package
- Package or envelope with suspicious powdery substance
- Unexpected package sent by someone unfamiliar to you
- Excessive postage
- Poorly written or typed address
- Incorrect title(s) with no names
- Misspelling of common words or names
- Addressed to someone no longer at the address
- Outdated postmarks
- No return address or one that can’t be identified as legitimate
- Return address not consistent with postmark
- Unusual weight, given package size; lopsided; or oddly shaped
- Unusual amount of tape, string, or other wrapping material
- Marked with restrictive labels like “fragile,” “personal,” “confidential,” or “rush-do-not-delay”
- Strange odor, stains, or noises (i.e. rattling, clicking, ticking, etc.) • Appears to contain electrical wire or aluminum foil
- Mailed from foreign country unfamiliar to recipient