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The recent news of anthrax sent through the mail to public figures has left consumers wondering if they are at risk and what to look for regarding suspicious packages and envelopes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States Postal Service, and the Federal Protective Service have published guidelines to inform citizens of what steps they should take when handling mail. It is important not to panic, because false alarms can overload emergency response systems-making it difficult for rescue and emergency staff to respond to legitimate concerns.

The following guidelines will help you determine whether you should be concerned with the mail you handle and what action to take.

• Things to look for that might suggest suspicious mail.
• General precautions for mail handling.
• How to handle suspicious mail.
• Opened packages that contain suspicious materials.
• Whom to contact if you think you have a suspicious mail piece.
• Additional information.
• Pass this information along to a friend.

Things to Look for That Might Suggest Suspicious Mail

1. Excessive postage, no postage, or non-canceled postage.
2. No return address or unfamiliar return address.
3. Misspellings of common words, such as addressee names, title, or locations.
4. Unexpected envelopes from foreign countries.
5. Suspicious or threatening messages written on packages.
6. Postmark showing different location than return address.
7. Distorted handwriting, poorly typed addresses, or cut and paste lettering.
8. Haphazardly wrapped packages or excessive use of tape, string, etc.
9. Packages marked as "Fragile-Handle with Care," "Rush-Do Not Delay," "Personal," or "Confidential."
10. Rigid, uneven, irregular, oddly shaped or lopsided packages.
11. Packages with soft spots, bulges, or excessive weight for their size.
12. Protruding wires or aluminum foil.
13. Powdery substance on the outside.
14. Addressed to someone no longer with your organization or otherwise outdated.
15. Strange odors, stains, or discolorations.
16. Incorrect title (or titles), and no name.
17. Visual distractions.
18. Ticking sound.

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Whom to Contact If You Think You Have A Suspicious Mail Piece

1. Local hotline for public inquiries about suspicious mail (if available).
2. Local law enforcement
3. 911

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Additional Information*

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• United States Postal Service
• Federal Protective Service

*If you click on these links, you are leaving FCIC's web site. Please bookmark us before you leave so you can return easily. FCIC is not responsible for the content of these web sites.

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We will not retain or use this information for any other purpose.

General Precautions for Mail Handling

1. Examine unopened envelopes and packages.
2. If the envelope or package does not appear to be suspicious as outlined above, proceed to open mail.
3. Use latex gloves and consider using other protective gear such as a mask when handling mail.
4. Restrict access to mail to adults.

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How to Handle Suspicious Mail

1. DO NOT PANIC.
2. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or any other part of your body.
3. Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag or some other type of container to prevent leakage of contents. If you do not have a container, then cover the envelope or package with anything (clothing, paper, trash can, etc.) and do not remove this cover.
4. Isolate the package by closing all windows and doors before leaving, and section off the area to prevent others from entering.
5. Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading.
6. Shut off the ventilation system in the room and, if possible, in the building.
7. Call 911 or your local law enforcement. They will contact the local public health authorities if necessary.
8. List all people who had contact with the package. Give the list to both the local public health authorities so that proper instructions can be given for medical follow-up, and to law enforcement officials for further investigation.

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For Opened Packages That Contain Suspicious Material

1. DO NOT PANIC.
2. Do not shake or empty the contents of the suspicious package.
3. Do not try to clean up spilled contents with anything, and do not remove the contents.
4. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or any other part of your body.
5. Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag or some other type of container to prevent leakage of contents. If you do not have a container, then cover the envelope or package with anything (clothing, paper, trash can, etc.) and do not remove this cover.
6. Isolate the package by closing all windows and doors before leaving, and section off the area to prevent others from entering.
7. Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading.
8. Shut off the ventilation system in the room and, if possible, in the building.
9. Call 911 or your local law enforcement. They will contact the local public health authorities if necessary.
10. List all people who had contact with the package. Give the list to both the local public health authorities so that proper instructions can be given for medical follow-up, and to law enforcement officials for further investigation.
11. Place all items worn when in contact with the suspected mail piece in plastic bags, keep them wherever you change your clothes, and have them available for law enforcement agents.
12. Shower with soap and water as soon as practical (Do not use bleach or other disinfectant on your skin.)
13. If prescribed medications by medical personnel, follow instructions and take them until instructed not to.

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