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Environmental Health & Safety > Emergency Preparedness > Suspicious Packages
There is always the possibility that a staff Member may receive a written Bomb Threat or a suspicious letter/parcel in the mail, or find a suspicious package on campus grounds. In such situations, the safety of persons is of paramount importance. Of secondary importance is the preservation of evidence and property.
A note/letter containing a written Bomb Threat should not be handled after the discovery is made. The item should be properly collected as evidence and sent for fingerprint and other laboratory analysis. Suspicious letter/packages should not be moved after discovery. In such situations, the Carson City Sheriff should be notified.
Be cautious of:
- Foreign mail, air mail, and special deliveries
- Restrictive markings such as “Confidential” or “Personal”
- Poorly typed or handwritten and/or misspelling of common words.
- Postmark that is different from the return address.
- Excessive postage.
- Unusual shape or weight or visual distractions.
- Excessive tape, string, or unusual sealing material.
- Odors, stains, or oily residues or discoloration on packages.
- Rigid, lopsided, or uneven envelopes
- Protruding wires or tin foil
- Any powdery substance
- No or unfamiliar return address
What to Do:
- Remain calm. DO NOT allow anyone to handle the item or go near it.
- Bomb-like packages: Evacuate the building.
- Letters: with odors, stains, oily residue, or powdery substance, contain the item in a larger envelope or a seal-able plastic bag.
- Notify University Police Services at 775-445-3308 or 775-230-1952.
- Write down everything you can remember about receiving or finding the letter or parcel/package. Provide the information to University Police Services.
- Assist officers in the evacuation of the threatened area when requested. DO NOT shut off lights, close doors or windows as while evacuating the area.