Recommendations on Mail and Package Handling
The following recommendations have been adapted from guidelines issued by the United States Postal Service and other sources.
If you discover mail that may have a light coating of a powdery substance:
- Double-bag mail piece in a zip-lock type plastic bag using latex gloves and a particulate mask (if available).
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Notify your immediate supervisor and Police Services (678-4357).
- Ensure that all persons who have touched the letter wash their hands with soap and water.
- List name and contact information for all persons who have touched the mail piece.
- Remain calm and stay in your office until authorities arrive. Allow no visitors.
Attributes of suspicious mail:
- Restrictive markings ("Personal")
- Postmark city different from return address
- Fictitious, unfamiliar or no return address
- Excessive postage
- Address to title only (Vice President)
- Wrong title with name
- Badly typed or written addresses
- Misspelled words
- Rigid or bulky
- Protruding wires
- Strange odor
- Oily stains on wrapping or lopsided package
If you are suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents with the addressee or sender:
- Handle with care. Don't shake or bump.
- Don't open, smell, touch, or taste.
- Isolate it immediately.
- Treat it as suspect.
- Call Police Services (678-4357).
Additional information may also be found on the USPS web site at www.usps.com.