Suspicious Packages and Mail

Opened Package

  • If you have opened a package containing a threat, powder, or unknown substance or have handled an unopened package with a substance spilling out of or bleeding through:
  • Place it down gently at the location where you opened or touched it. Try to keep the substance from becoming airborne.
  • Do not move the package from its current location.
  • If powder spills from container DO NOT attempt to clean up.
  • Leave the room and close the windows and doors behind you. Move to an area that will minimize exposing others.
  • Wash hands with soap and water.
  • Contact the University Police Department immediately at (352) 392-1111. Off-campus locations dial 911 .
  • Do not allow others to enter the area.
  • Remain calm. Exposure does not mean that you will become sick. Emergency responders and Public Health officials will provide specific information and instructions.
  • Depending on your situation, responding emergency personnel may ask you to shower and change clothes. It is important to place contaminated clothing in a sealable plastic bag for analysis and evidence. 

Unopened Package

If the suspicious package is unopened with no leakage, spillage or bleeding:

  • Stop. Do not handle.
  • Isolate it immediately.
  • Do not open, smell or taste.
  • Contact the University Police Department immediately at (352) 392-1111. Off-campus locations dial 911. 

Watch for:

  • No return address.
  • Restrictive markings.
  • Sealed with tape.
  • Misspelled words. Badly typed or written.
  • Unknown powder or suspicious substance.
  • Possibly mailed from a foreign country. Excessive postage.
  • Oily stains, discolorations, crystallization on wrapper.
  • Excessive tape.
  • Strange odor.
  • Incorrect title or addressed to title only.
  • Rigid or bulky.
  • Lopsided or uneven.
  • Protruding wires.

 

Source: University of Florida Police Department and UF Environmental Health & Safety

Version Date: 06/07/2012