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Suspicious packages

In the event that you believe you may have received a suspect package/letter, you should ask yourself the following:

• Is it likely that you will be targeted?
• Is your place of work or organisation at risk of being targeted?
• Do you have any other realistic grounds for concern?

The following may be indicators of a suspicious package/letter:

• Are you expecting the package/letter?
• Is it from a sender that you do not know?
• Does it have protruding wires?
• Is it lopsided or uneven?
• Does it have a strange odour, discolourations, oily stains or crystallisation on the packaging?
• Does it have excessive tape, string or is it otherwise over-packaged?
• Does it appear to contain powder or other unusual contents?
• Does it have an unfamiliar, illegible or no postmark, or no postage?

If you are still unsure:

• Do not take anyone to see the package.
• Do not rub your eyes or scratch yourself if you have had contact with the package/letter.
• Do not open it.
• Do not pass it around.

What to do:

• Place the package/letter in a sealed, preferably see-through container, if possible.
• Leave it in an accessible place.
• Shut windows.
• Shut all doors.
• Switch off any air conditioning.
• Isolate people who have had contact and contain the exposure.
• Call the police on 999.
• Gather information on the events that have occurred and who is involved.
• Consult with line managers and emergency services before considering evacuation.
• Stay calm.

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