There are a number of signs that may make a letter or package
appear suspicious. One sign alone may be innocent, but a
combination of a few will require caution.
Do not handle the package unnecessarily and if there is any
doubt, leave the package on a flat surface, isolate the area and
seek advice.
Seven key things to look out for:
- Size: Is the letter big enough to house a
device without being obvious e.g. Jiffy-bags?
- Shape: Is the shape irregular e.g. lumps
denoting possibility of batteries or switching gear? Please do not
bend.
- Sender: Do you recognise who sent it from
the postmark, label or typeface. Do they match? Can you check with
the recipient?
- Stamp: Are there no stamps or is it
over-stamped? Is the postmark blurred, smudged or missing
altogether?
- Seal: Has the letter been sealed more securely
denoting it is containing something that must not fall out? Is
there excessive use of tape, staples etc?
- Stain: Is there an oily stain showing through
the envelope or oily finger marks on the outside? Some explosives
weep/sweat small amounts of liquid that will produce stains.
- Smell: Explosives can smell - the smell of
almonds or marzipan is suspicious. Equally an overpowering smell of
(for example) perfume could be used to try and disguise this.