Suspicious Package or Mail

If you receive or discover a suspicious package or mail:

• Do not touch it, tamper with it, or move it!
• Immediately call Public Safety (218.477.2449).
  • Do not use a cell phone within 300 feet of a suspicious package.
   

What constitutes a suspicious letter or parcel?

Some typical characteristics which ought to trigger suspicion include letters or parcel that:

• Have any powdery substance on the outside.
• Are unexpected or from someone unfamiliar to you.
• Have excessive postage, handwritten or poorly typed address, incorrect titles or titles with no name, or misspellings of common words.
• Are addressed to someone no longer with your organization or are otherwise outdated.
• Have no return address or have one that can't be verified as legitimate.
• Are of unusual weight, given their size, or are lopsided or oddly shaped.
• Have an unusual amount of tape.
• Are marked with restrictive endorsements, such as "Personal" or "Confidential."
• Have strange odors or stains.

What to do if you receive a suspicious package or parcel:

• Remain calm.
• Handle with care. Do not shake or bump.
• Isolate it immediately. Seal in a plastic bag if possible or cover with any material.
• Don't open, smell, touch, or taste.
• Leave the room and close the door so others can't enter.
• Treat it as suspect. Call Public Safety (218.477.2449).