GUIDELINES FOR HANDLING
SUSPICIOUS MAIL AND THREATENING PACKAGES

Historically, the likelihood of receiving a package or letter containing suspicious substances or devices is remote. It is important to be alert for suspicious packages, but keep in mind that a letter or package containing a mail bomb or biological or chemical threat is an extremely rare occurrence. While the risk of receiving an explosive device or contracting any disease from the mail is extremely low, it is important that we remain vigilant in taking precautions against this potential threat. Some indicators for determining suspicious packages and letters can be found in these documents from the Department of Public Safety.

IMPORTANT:

• Do not panic.
• Do not walk around with the letter or shake it.
• Do not merely discard the letter.
• Do not open, smell, or taste the powder.
• Each year the U.S. Postal Service processes approximately 200 billion pieces of mail. Of those billions of pieces of mail, only a very limited number of letters or packages actually contain an explosive or biological or chemical hazard.

SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE PROTOCOL AT PENN

• Suspicious Package Protocol at Penn
• US Postal Service Suspicious Mail Poster
• FBI Suspicious Package Advisory Poster
• Suspicious Mail
  
  • No return address
  • Excessive Postage
  • Misspelled Words
  • Protruding Wires
  • Strange Odor
  • Oily Stains, Discoloration on Wrapper
  • Excessive Tape or String

• Threatening Package Protocol at Penn
• Threatening Package Checklist