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Over the last several days, the media have reported on a number of explosive devices sent through the mail to prominent Democrats and vocal critics of the current administration. While the FBI have taken the devices for investigation, the Postal Service has issued a stand-up talk for letter carriers and other postal workers to help them identify any additional suspicious packages.

“Letter carriers should remember the warning signs,” NALC President Fredric Rolando said. “When in doubt, don’t take any risks and follow the protocols for treating it as a suspicious package.

 “Take every precaution to keep yourself and others out of danger,” Rolando said.

Characteristics to look out for include:

• Shape – Is it lopsided or uneven? Is it rigid or bulky?
• Look – Are there oily stains, discolorations, or crystals on the wrapper? Does it have a strange odor?
• Address – Is there a return address? Are there restrictive markings? Are there misspelled words? Is it addressed to a title rather than to an individual? Is it an incorrect title? Is it poorly typed or written?
• Packaging – Is it sealed with tape? Is there excessive tape? Is there excessive postage?

If you open a mailbox and see a suspicious item:

• Don’t touch it.
• Don’t put anything else in the mailbox.
• Leave the mailbox door open.
• Evacuate the immediate area.
• Isolate the area.

If you see smoke or hear sounds such as hissing, and think there is an immediate danger:

• Move to a safe area and call 911.
• Follow the instructions from first responders.
• Call your supervisor to report the incident.
• Call postal inspectors as 877-876-2455. When prompted, state “emergency” to speak with an inspector.

Even if you believe there is not an immediate danger:

• Move to a safe area and call your supervisor to report the incident.
• Call postal inspectors as 877-876-2455. When prompted, state “emergency” to speak with an inspector.