Suspicious Mail and Packages

The following characteristics may identify suspicious parcels;

• Unexpected or from someone unfamiliar to you.  Addressed to someone no longer with your organization or otherwise outdated (e.g. improper title).
• No return address or one that can't be verified as legitimate.
• Has any powdery substance on the outside.
• Appears to be leaking an unknown liquid.
• Of unusual weight, given its size or is lopsided.
• Marked with restrictive endorsements, such as Personal or Confidential.
• Protruding wires, strange odors or stains.
• Has an unusual amount of tape.
• Has excessive postage applied to the parcel.
• A city or state in the postmark doesn't match the return address. 

If you receive a suspicious parcel in the mail;

• Do not open the parcel.
• Isolate the piece of mail.
• Call Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE from an off-campus phone for additional instructions. 
• Do not pass the letter/parcel to others.
• Deny access to the letter to everyone except emergency responders.
• Move to an area that minimizes exposure to others and to the parcel.
• If possible, wash your hands and face with soap and water. 

If you open a parcel that appears to be contaminated;

• Do not move the parcel
• Call Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE from an off-campus phone.
• Turn off any fans, window air conditioners and or small/area heaters.
• Isolate the area.  Evacuate the adjoining areas.
• Everyone who is evacuated should report to the building's designated assembly area.
• Do not pass the letter/parcel to others.  Deny access to the letter to everyone except emergency responders.
• The individual who opened the parcel and anyone else who has come into contact with the parcel should remain isolated in an area adjacent to the original location and wait for additional instructions from responding emergency personnel.
• If possible, the individuals who had contact with the parcel should wash their face and hands with soap and water.