Dealing with suspect packages

Potential hazards

• incendiary devices
• explosive devices
• chemical or biological contamination
• sharp blades / needles

Look for the following

• the postmark - is it foreign?
• do you normally get letters or parcels from this country?
• is the name and address of the sender missing?
• the writing: is it 'unusual' in style. Do you recognise it?
• is there any improper spelling of common names, places or titles?
• does it have no postage or non-cancelled postage?
• is it evenly balanced? If the package is lopsided, treat it as suspect
• if the weight seems to be excessive for the package's size, treat it as suspect.
• are there any small holes or pinpoints which could have been made by wires?
• are there any stains or grease marks, which could be caused by sweating explosives?
• the feel of the package. In the case of letters, it will indicate whether there is only folded paper inside the envelope or if there is stiffening; for example, cardboard, the feel of metal or the feel of a granular substance, in which cases treat it as suspect
• does it smell? Some explosives have an aroma of marzipan or almonds
• can you see if there are any unusual outlines if you hold it up to the light?
• is the flap of the envelope stuck down completely? (There is usually a small gap.) If so treat it as suspect

What to do with a suspect package

• do not open it
• do not bend the envelope or package, or place it in water
• do place the package on a flat surface, if possible in a sealable container or plastic bag (if it's been opened leave it)
• do shut the windows in the room
• do switch off any extract fans / air conditioning
• do leave the room closing the door.
• do not go back into the room.
• do evacuate the building / immediate vicinity keeping clear of the suspect package.
• do not touch your eyes, nose or other part of your body in case your hands are contaminated
• do wash your hands thoroughly
• do keep all evacuated persons available for questioning by the police, do not allow them to disperse
• do keep all persons who have been near the package together and, as far as possible, isolated from others
• if possible, ensure that a list is compiled of each member of staff and all visitors names and location within the building at the time of the event, and contact details

Emergency procedures

• ensure you have an suspect package / evacuation plan in place (fire evacuation system is generally suitable)
• raise the alarm
• go to the assembly point
• contact the emergency services on 999