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 a 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