

Presence of residue powder or granular substance.Some characteristics of suspicious letters/packages may include, but are not limited to, the following: One or more of the following characteristics may not be indicative of an actual threat, however, these indicators should be used in conjunction with the totality of the circumstances to assess the viability of the threat. Indicators of Suspicious Letters/Packages In all incidents where victims exhibit signs or complain of symptoms of exposure, the Fire Department must be requested immediately. Do not assume you are dealing with a suspicious powder just because the informant used the term anthrax when they reported the incident.Īdditionally, this directive does not address traditional hazardous materials incidents (refer to Emergency Operations Procedures 2-4, Hazardous Materials Incidents) or weapons of mass destruction (WMD) incidents involving victims with signs and symptoms (refer to Field Operations Directive 05-05, Weapons of Mass Destruction Guidelines and Emergency Operations Procedures 4-3, Weapons of Mass Destruction). It should be noted that an improvised explosive device can be hidden in something as small as a greeting card envelope.

Suspicious package handling manual#
Refer to Manual of Policy and Procedures, section 5-06/080.15, Patrol Unit’s Responsibilities – Notifications – Safety Precautions, when dealing with suspected explosive device situations. This directive focuses on procedures for handling suspicious powder letters/packages of a potential biohazard nature and not incidents of suspected explosive devices. Although not related to terrorism, these powders are generally sent intentionally and, as such, constitute both federal and state crimes with or without a written threat accompanying them. Numerous years after the Anthrax incidents, patrol personnel continue to respond to incidents involving suspicious powders being sent through the mail. Wash your hands to prevent spreading any powder or hazardous substance to your face.HANDLING SUSPICIOUS PACKAGES/LETTERS RE: BIOLOGICAL HAZARD PURPOSE.Leave and close the door to the space containing the suspicious letter or package, cover the threshold area under the door with a towel or a coat if possible, and section off the area (keep others away).Contact the SUNO Police immediately at 50.with you in case return to your office is delayed. Take essential belongings, like cell phones, keys, purse, etc.Alert others nearby to relocate to an area away from the site of the suspicious item.Shut off any fans or equipment in the area that may circulate the material.If possible, gently cover the letter (use a trash can, article of clothing, etc.).Leave the letter or package where it is or gently place it on the nearest flat surface.Do not open the letter or package (or open any further), do not shake it, do not show it to others, or empty its contents.Procedures for Handling Suspicious Mail and Packages When a mail item appears suspicious, there are a number of steps you should take in order to ensure your own safety and protect the safety of others. Oily stains, discolorations or crystallization on wrapping.Postmark does not match return address.Restrictive markings such as "Personal" or "Confidential".Typical characteristics of suspicious letters and packages include: Leave it exactly where it was found and immediately notify the Campus Police Department at (504) 286-5290. Only you know what is suspicious to you so trust your instincts. Never touch or move any item that appears suspicious. In general terms, a suspicious package is any bag, box, backpack, package or other item left unattended or that otherwise seems out of place.

Suspicious packages can come in all shapes and sizes.
