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Emergency Procedure for Suspicious Package or Item

Characteristics of a Suspicious Package or Item Heading link

  • Package or envelope with suspicious powdery substance
  • Unexpected package sent by someone unfamiliar to you
  • Excessive postage
  • Poorly written or typed address
  • Incorrect title(s) with no names
  • Misspelling of common words or names
  • Addressed to someone no longer at the address
  • Outdated postmarks
  • No return address or one that can not be identified as legitimate
  • Return address not consistent with postmark
  • Unusual weight, given package size; lopsided; or oddly shaped
  • Unusual amount of tape, string, or other wrapping material
  • Marked with restrictive labels like “fragile,” “personal,” “confidential,” or “rush-do-not-delay”
  • Strange odor, stains, or noises (i.e. rattling, clicking, ticking, etc.)
  • Appears to contain electrical wire or aluminum foil
  • Mailed from foreign country unfamiliar to recipient
  • Unknown box or container
  • Suspicious looking unattended backpack or briefcase

What to Do Heading link

If you encounter a suspicious package or item, consider the specific circumstances when evaluating the following signs.

The presence of one characteristic may not necessarily mean a package is dangerous, but if in doubt, call the local Police or Sheriff’s Department and follow these guidelines:

  • Remain calm and stay away from the package or item.
  • Do not allow anyone to handle or go near the package or item.
  • If a suspicious package or item is discovered while handling, avoid dropping, throwing or any other abrupt movement. Gently set the package down in an evacuated and secluded area.
  • Do not use any cell phones, radios or other wireless devices around the package or item.

Who to call

Call Winnebago or Boone County emergency personnel at 911 if it is an emergency. Contact the Office of Physical Plant by calling 815-395-5830, dialing extension 5830 from any campus phone or by dialing “4” from any campus phone if not an emergency.

When you call 911

When speaking with a 911 dispatcher, state the location of the package or item and provide a description. Stay on the phone until released by dispatcher.

After reporting

If you touched the package/item, immediately wash your hands, arms, etc. with soap and water for 15 minutes.

If 911 is called, notify the Office of Physical Plant by calling 815-395-5830 or dialing extension 5830 from any campus phone afterward.

In either the emergency or non-emergency situation, the Office of Communications should be notified as well by calling 815-395-5601 or emailing prrockford@uic.edu.