Emergency Procedure for Suspicious Package or Item
Characteristics of a Suspicious Package or Item Heading link
Characteristics part 1
- 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- Outdated postmarks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
Characteristics part 2
- 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
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.