Suspicious Letter or Package

If you receive a suspicious letter or package:

  • Do NOT handle.
  • Don't shake or bump.
  • Isolate immediately.
  • Don't open, smell, or taste.
  • Treat it as suspect.
  • Call 911.

Common features of suspicious packages:

  • Are unexpected or from someone unfamiliar to you.
  • Have no return address or a return address that can't be verified as legitimate.
  • Are marked with restrictive endorsements such as "Personal," "Confidential," or "Do Not X-ray."
  • Have protruding wires or aluminum foil, strange odors or stains.
  • Show a city or state in the postmark that doesn't match the return address.
  • Are of unusual weight given their size or are lopsided or oddly shaped.
  • Are marked with threatening language.
  • Have inappropriate or unusual labeling.
  • Have excessive postage or packaging material, such as masking tape and string.
  • Have misspellings of common words.
  • Are addressed to someone no longer with your organization or are otherwise outdated.
  • Have incorrect titles or titles without a name.
  • Are not addressed to a specific person.
  • Have handwritten or poorly typed addresses.

If a package or letter is open and/or a threat is identified:

For a bomb:

  • Evacuate immediately.
  • Call 911.

For radiological:

  • Shield yourself from the object.
  • Limit exposure — don't handle.
  • Evacuate area and call 911.

For biological or chemical

  • Isolate — don't handle.
  • Call 911.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water.

Suspicious substance in a campus building:

  • Clear and isolate the contaminated area. Do not touch or disturb anything.
  • Call University Police at 979-845-2345 or 911. For the Health Science Center contact 911 or for a specific campus phone number search here.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Identify individuals who may have been exposed to the material.
  • Do not leave premises until dismissed by authorities.

Additional Resources