Suspicious Mail

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.