A suspicious package is any unattended or unusual object whose presence or appearance deviates from the expected norm for its location, suggesting it may contain hazardous materials or pose a threat. Suspicion is based on the overall context and a combination of visual and physical indicators that make the item seem out of place. Recognizing these abnormalities is the first action an individual can take to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Identifying Characteristics of Suspicious Mail
Mail received through the postal service or internal delivery systems often displays specific signs that suggest danger. One indicator is the postage used, such as excessive postage applied to a small envelope, which suggests the sender wanted to avoid face-to-face interaction with a postal clerk. Conversely, inadequate postage may point to an attempt to bypass standard mailing procedures. Addressing irregularities include handwritten or poorly typed labels, incorrect titles, or the misspelling of common words or names, indicating a lack of care or familiarity with the recipient.
A missing or fictitious return address is a suspicious sign, as legitimate senders rarely omit this information. The postmark location may not match the return address, suggesting an unexpected or deliberately obscured origin. The exterior might also show physical anomalies, like oily stains or discoloration on the wrapping, which could be residue from chemical or biological agents inside. The parcel’s shape or weight can also be telling, appearing lopsided, overly bulky, or unusually rigid for its size, which may indicate the presence of non-standard internal components.
Mail pieces may contain restrictive markings, such as “Personal,” “Confidential,” or “Do not x-ray,” used to manipulate the recipient into opening the package without security screening. An unusual smell emanating from the envelope, perhaps a chemical or metallic odor, is another physical sign that should prompt caution. The combination of these labeling or physical irregularities should elevate the item to a high level of suspicion.
Identifying Features of Suspicious Packages and Objects
Suspicious characteristics in larger packages or unattended objects found in public settings often relate to visible components or placement. A package may have an irregular or non-standard shape, possibly being oddly rigid or unevenly weighted, which is common when attempting to conceal an improvised device. The exterior may feature excessive amounts of tape or string applied in an unprofessional manner, suggesting an attempt to contain unstable contents or secure a crude mechanism.
Visual confirmation of protruding wires, batteries, or exposed aluminum foil attached to the outside of a package indicate a potential threat. A faint ticking or buzzing sound coming from the interior suggests the presence of an active timer or electrical circuit. Packages exhibiting leakage, particularly if the substance is powdery, crystalline, or oily, may contain biological, chemical, or explosive materials.
The context of the item is often as significant as its appearance, especially for objects like bags, briefcases, or backpacks found in public spaces. An unattended item left in an area where packages are not normally stored, such as a stairwell, near an exit, or on public transit, is suspicious by placement alone. An unexpected delivery outside of normal business hours or an item that no one in the vicinity is expecting also raises a red flag.
Immediate Actions When a Suspicious Item is Found
The first action upon recognizing a suspicious item is to remain calm and avoid physical contact. Under no circumstances should the item be touched, moved, shaken, or tampered with, as this could unintentionally trigger an explosive or release a hazardous material. If the item is mail, gently place it on a flat surface without disturbing it further.
The next step involves isolating the area and establishing a safety perimeter. Individuals should calmly evacuate the immediate vicinity, directing others to move a safe distance away from the object. For potential explosive devices, the preferred evacuation distance can exceed 1,200 feet, but a minimum distance of 70 feet is recommended for small threats like a pipe bomb. If the item is indoors, closing the door and, if safe, shutting off any fans or ventilation systems can help prevent the spread of airborne contaminants.
Contacting the appropriate authorities is necessary once a safe distance has been established. This typically means calling 911 or the local emergency number to report the discovery. When communicating with first responders, provide an accurate description of the item, its exact location, and why it is considered suspicious. Individuals should avoid using cell phones or two-way radios within 25 meters (approximately 82 feet) of the item, as the radio frequency energy emitted could potentially detonate an electronic triggering mechanism. After isolating the object and reporting it, anyone who may have come into contact with the item should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent contamination.