How to Recognize Suspicious Mail and Packages
Inappropriate or unusual labeling:
- Excessive postage
- Misspelled common words
- No return address or strange return address
- Unusual addressing, such as not being addressed to a specific person or the use of incorrect titles or titles with no name
- Restrictive markings, such as “personal,” “confidential,” or “do not x-ray”
Inappropriate or unusual appearance:
- Powdery substances felt through or appearing on the item
- Oily stains or discolorations on the exterior
- Strange odors
- Excessive packaging material, like tape or string
- Lopsided or bulky shape of envelopes or boxes
- Ticking sounds, protruding wires, or exposed aluminum foil
Handling Procedures
- Stay calm.
- Do not open the letter or package (or open any further), do not shake, do not show to others or empty contents.
- Leave the letter or package where it is or gently place on the nearest flat surface.
- If possible, gently cover it up (using a trash can, article of clothing, etc.).
- Shut off any fans or equipment in the area that may circulate the material.
- Alert others nearby to relocate to an area away from the site of the suspicious item.
- Take essential belongings with you in case return to the area is delayed.
- Contact Pitt Police immediately at 412-624-2121.
- Leave and close the door to the space containing the suspicious letter or package, cover the area under the door with a towel or a coat if possible, and keep others away by sectioning off the area.
- Wash your hands to prevent spreading any potential hazardous substance.