What to do with a Suspicious Letter or Package

One of the goals of the terrorist sending letters containing anthrax to high visibility people on the east coast, is to create fear and panic and confusion in the lives of people nowhere near the contamination. Our best defense is education and cool heads.

What is a suspicious letter or package?

Suspicious items may include letters or packages with:

• Excessive postage
• No return address
• Oily stains on the outside
• Wires protruding
• Bulky and lopsided contents

Please visit Click Here for a more complete explanation and a copy of the FBI poster on suspicious mail. If you decide to print a copy of the poster, remember to replace all contact phone numbers with the UAB Police phone number.

What do I do if I think a letter or package is suspicious?

If you receive a suspicious letter or package, don't panic; Contact UAB Police by dialing 911 from any UAB telephone, or call them at 934-3535. UAB Police and Occupational Health and Safety will respond to assess the situation and take appropriate action. In the meantime, don't handle the letter or package. Don't open it, smell it, shake it or bump it. Leave it right where it is and leave the room - closing the door behind you to keep others out of the area. Wash your hands and wait calmly for UAB Police to arrive.

Important Note: You can help reduce the number of false alarms with some simple housecleaning. If you spill coffee creamer, talcum powder, salt, or any other powdery material that others might find suspicious, please, clean it up!