If you are suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents with the addressee or sender:
- Do not open it.
- Treat it as suspect.
- Isolate it.
- Notify your supervisor.
- Call the OUPD. Dial 911 from any campus phone, or (248) 370-3333 from a cell phone.
Types of suspicious mail
- Restrictive markings (e.g., “Personal”)
- Postmark city different from return address
- Fictitious, unfamiliar or no return address
- Excessive postage
- Address to title only (e.g., "Vice President")
- Wrong title with name
- Badly typed or written addresses
- Misspelled words
- Rigid or bulky
- Protruding wires or tin foil
- Strange odor
- Oily stains on wrapping or lopsided package
- Sloshing sounds – possible liquid contents
- Excessive wrapping materials such as strapping tape or string
- Exceptionally heavy for size
Procedures to follow
If you perceive a potential threat or suspicious letter/package:
- Do not open the mail.
- Double-bag the letter or package in a zip-lock type plastic bag using latex gloves.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Notify your immediate supervisor, University Mail Services Manager or Director of Property Management, and OUPD. To reach OUPD, dial 911 from any campus phone, or (248) 370-3333 from a cell phone.
- Ensure that all persons who have touched the letter/package wash their hands with soap and water.
- List all persons who have touched the letter/package with contact information.