There have been a limited number of national incidents involving agents of terror, including anthrax and ricin, being sent through the mail. The University has developed guidance on handling suspicious mail or packages.
How to Prepare:
Any University staff member who handles bulk mail quantities - either from the U.S. Post Office or via campus Mail Services - should attend training on mail handling, which covers procedures for safe mail handling, how to identify a suspicious package or letter, and reporting procedures. Please contact Environmental Health and Safety at 609-258-5294 to schedule a session.
What to Do:
If you receive a suspicious letter or package:
- Do not try to open the package. If there is spilled material, do not try to clean it up and do not smell, touch or taste the material.
- Do not shake the package or letter.
- Isolate the package from other materials, if possible.
- Call Department of the Department of Public Safety at 911 or activate a blue light phone tower and give them your exact location.
- Calmly alert others in the immediate area and leave the area, closing the door behind you.
- Wash hands and exposed skin vigorously with soap and flowing water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wait for the Department of Public Safety and Environmental Health and Safety to respond. Do not leave the building unless instructed to do so by Department of Public Safety personnel.
- The Department of Public Safety and Environmental Health and Safety will respond and investigate further.
- Normal access to the area may be disrupted. The Department of Public Safety and Environmental Health and Safety will contact local, state and federal authorities, as appropriate.
Pranks and Hoaxes
For More Information:
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page on Anthrax Facts
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page on Ricin Facts