ANTI-TERRORISM
TIP OF THE WEEK
Suspicious Packages/Letters
During the month of September, a string of suspicious letters originating from a maximum-security prison in Nevada targeted at least 16 different state governors. The letters, which did not give prison authorities or governor staff any indication they were unusual or suspicious, contained a single match which was rigged to ignite when the letter was open. To date, no injuries or damage have been reported and investigators are now questioning inmates at the prison from which the letters originated.
This series of events brings to light the possibility and probability of suspicious packages and letters that may be utilized to inflict death, injury, and property damage. History has proven that explosive devices and/or chemical agents delivered by mail have become almost the preferred choice of those wishing to inflict harm and fear. From the tactics of the Unabomber to the anthrax attacks of late 2001, the use of letters and packages to deliver explosives and chemical agents is becoming increasingly common with no apparent signs of these tactics subsiding.
As such, there are steps personnel can take to safely identify and isolate suspicious packages and letters. If you receive a suspicious package or letter, the following steps should be adhered to:
1) Handle all packages with care. Do not bump or shake the package/letter.
2) As soon as the package/letter becomes suspicious, isolate it immediately! Leave the package/letter where it stands and allow no other personnel to handle it.
3) Evacuate all personnel from the area. If a hazardous agent (anthrax) is suspected, immediately shut down all A/C units and ventilation units. Close all doors and windows in the area as you evacuate the area.
4) Contact the local law enforcement authorities (military police).
Please be prepared to give all information concerning the package/letter to the local authorities may request so they can best identify and neutralize the possible threat.
The best procedures to follow when handling packages or letters is to handle them with care at all times and always be alert to anything unusual or out of the ordinary. If you believe a package or letter is suspicious, treat it as such. Never assume a package/letter is safe. When in doubt, ask!
TIP OF THE WEEK
Suspicious Packages/Letters
During the month of September, a string of suspicious letters originating from a maximum-security prison in Nevada targeted at least 16 different state governors. The letters, which did not give prison authorities or governor staff any indication they were unusual or suspicious, contained a single match which was rigged to ignite when the letter was open. To date, no injuries or damage have been reported and investigators are now questioning inmates at the prison from which the letters originated.
This series of events brings to light the possibility and probability of suspicious packages and letters that may be utilized to inflict death, injury, and property damage. History has proven that explosive devices and/or chemical agents delivered by mail have become almost the preferred choice of those wishing to inflict harm and fear. From the tactics of the Unabomber to the anthrax attacks of late 2001, the use of letters and packages to deliver explosives and chemical agents is becoming increasingly common with no apparent signs of these tactics subsiding.
As such, there are steps personnel can take to safely identify and isolate suspicious packages and letters. If you receive a suspicious package or letter, the following steps should be adhered to:
1) Handle all packages with care. Do not bump or shake the package/letter.
2) As soon as the package/letter becomes suspicious, isolate it immediately! Leave the package/letter where it stands and allow no other personnel to handle it.
3) Evacuate all personnel from the area. If a hazardous agent (anthrax) is suspected, immediately shut down all A/C units and ventilation units. Close all doors and windows in the area as you evacuate the area.
4) Contact the local law enforcement authorities (military police).
Please be prepared to give all information concerning the package/letter to the local authorities may request so they can best identify and neutralize the possible threat.
The best procedures to follow when handling packages or letters is to handle them with care at all times and always be alert to anything unusual or out of the ordinary. If you believe a package or letter is suspicious, treat it as such. Never assume a package/letter is safe. When in doubt, ask!
