HANDLING SUSPICIOUS MAIL
Hazardous agents can be enclosed in either a package or an envelope, and its outward
appearance is limited only by the imagination of the perpetrator. However, some unique
characteristics may assist the identification of a suspect mailing.
Things to remember when receiving mail
Mail bombs may bear restricted endorsements such as “personal” or “private.”
Addressee’s name or title may be inaccurate.
Return address may be fictitious or not available.
Hazardous mail may have distorted handwriting or the name may be prepared with homemade
labels or cut and paste lettering.
Cancellation or postmark may show a different location than the return address.
Hazardous mail may have excessive postage.
Letter bombs may feel rigid, or appear uneven or lopsided.
Package bombs may be unprofessionally wrapped with several combinations of tape used
to secure the package and may be endorsed “fragile-handle with care” or “rush-do not
delay.”
Hazardous mail may have an irregular shape, soft spots, or bulges.
Hazardous mail may make a sloshing sound. Although placed devices may buzz or tick,
mailed bombs generally do not.
Pressure or resistance may be noted when removing contents from an envelope or package.
If you are suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents
Do not open.
Isolate the mailing and evacuate the immediate area.
Do not put it in water or a confined space such as a desk drawer or filing cabinet.
If possible, open windows in the immediate area to assist in venting potential explosive
gases.
If you have any reason to believe a letter or package is suspicious, do not take a
chance or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent.
Contact the Southeastern Louisiana University Police at (985) 549-2222
If I receive an anthrax threat by mail
Do not handle the mail piece or package suspected of contamination.
Make sure that damaged or suspicious packages are isolated and the immediate area
cordoned off.
If possible try to identify all of the people who may have come into contact with
the suspicious mail.
Ensure that all persons who have touched the piece of mail wash their hands with soap
and water.
Contact the Southeastern Louisiana University Police at (985) 549-2222.