Managing suspicious mail
September 6, 2024 – Defence Stories
When dealing with suspicious mail, keeping calm and following the right steps is crucial. Here's a quick guide to managing such situations:
- Do not touch: If you receive a package or letter that seems suspicious, avoid touching it. This helps prevent any potential exposure to harmful substances.
- Leave the letter or package where it is.
- Inform others and get everyone out: Notify anyone around you about the suspicious item so they can avoid it.
- Alert authorities: Contact the appropriate authorities, such as local law enforcement or postal inspectors, who are trained to handle such situations. They can provide further instructions and investigate the matter.
- Follow guidelines: Refer to any additional guidelines provided by authorities or your organization. They may have specific procedures in place for handling suspicious mail.
Staying informed and prepared can help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. For more detailed information, you can refer to the infographic below.
Please visit the Security Awareness Toolkit found through the Director General Defence Security (DGDS) intranet page for more content.
Security Awareness Toolkit (mil.ca)
Infographic – Text version
Suspicious packages can be dangerous and may appear in different forms, such as letters, parcels, suitcase, backpack or any type of container. DND employees and CAF members can deal with suspicious packages by following these tips:
Recognize the warning signs of suspicious mail:
- Unfamiliar return address or none at all
- Strange odour or noise
- Protruding wires
- Excessive postage
- Misspelled or badly typed words
- Addressed to a business title only (e.g. President)
- Restrictive markings (e.g. Do not X-ray)
- Excessive wrapping, tape or string
- Oily stains, leaking or crystallization on wrapping
Steps to take if you're concerned about a package or letter you've received:
- Do not handle, shake or smell it.
- Leave the letter or package where it is.
- Get everyone out of the room and close the door.
- Notify your supervisor.
- Immediately notify the military or civilian police.
For more information
Refer to the National Defence Security Orders and Directives (NDSODs)
Chapter 16: Critical Incidents – Annex B: Suspicious packages.
