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UF Advisory: Handling Suspicious Packages and Mail

 

Although a package could contain a biological, chemical, or explosive agent, the likelihood is remote. Experience demonstrates that most are a hoax. We must use common sense. It is our responsibility to remain vigilant and treat packages that are suspicious as if there is a real threat.

 

Staff responsible for incoming mail should be especially vigilant.

 

What is a suspicious package?

 

A good rule of thumb to use when evaluating a package would be, “Is it unusual, considering normal incoming mail and packages?”

 

The following are some indicators that may help you in this evaluation:

  • Grease stains or discoloration on paper
  • Strange odors
  • Lopsided or uneven envelope
  • Protruding wires or tinfoil
  • Excessive securing material such as masking tape, string, etc.
  • Excessive weight
  • Wrapped in brown paper with twine
  • No return address
  • Insufficient or excessive postage
  • Return address and postmark are not from same area
  • Foreign mail
  • Restrictive markings such as Confidential, Personal, or Hand Delivery
  • Hand written or poorly typed addresses
  • Incorrect titles
  • Titles but no names
  • Misspellings of common words
  • Is addressee familiar with name and address of sender?
  • Is addressee expecting package/letter?
  • Buzzing or ticking noise or sloshing sound
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Package

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.
  • You may place the package and contents in a zip-lock style plastic bag if available.
  • 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 your exposing others.
  • If possible, wash your 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.
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Unopened Package

 

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

  • You may place the package and contents in a zip-lock style plastic bag if one is available.
  • Contact the University Police Department immediately at (352) 392-1111
    Off-campus locations dial 911
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