|
|
|
It is important
to be alert for suspicious parcels, but keep in mind that a mail bomb
is an extremely rare occurrence. To illustrate just how rare, Postal
Inspectors have investigated an average of 16 mail bombs over the
last few years. By contrast, each year, the Postal Service processed
over 170 billion pieces of mail. That means during the last few years,
the chances that a piece of mail actually contains a bomb average
far less than one in 10 billion!
Still, those who
are familiar with the characteristics of suspect parcels can help
to avert a tragedy. This actually occurred in 1991, when a Dumfries,
VA, letter carrier identified a suspect parcel in a collection box.
The parcel contained a bomb intended for the sender's estranged husband.
By acting quickly, the carrier may have saved the man's life. Although
the appearance of mail bombs may vary greatly, here are some characteristics
that have repeatedly shown up:
- Mail bombs
may have excessive postage. Normally a bomber does not want to mail
a parcel over the counter and have to deal face-to-face with a window
clerk.
- The return
address may be fictitious or non-existent.
- The postmark
may show a different location than the return address.
- Mail bombs
may bear restricted endorsements, such as "Personal" or
"Private." This is particularly important when the addressee
does not usually receive personal mail at the office.
- Mail bombs
may display distorted handwriting, or the name and address may be
prepared with homemade labels or cut-and-paste lettering.
- Parcel bombs
may be unprofessionally wrapped with several combinations of tape
used to secure the package, and may be endorsed "Fragile--Handle
With Care" or "Rush--Do Not Delay."
- Letter bombs
may feel rigid, or appear uneven or lopsided.
- Package bombs
may have an irregular shape, soft spots or bulges.
- Mail bombs
may have protruding wires, aluminum foil, or oil stains, and may
emit a peculiar odor.
While the overwhelming
volume of mail does not permit the Postal Service to screen every piece,
Postal Inspectors are able to respond quickly if a suspect article is
discovered. Each Inspection Service field division has trained and equipped
bomb specialists available to provide professional assistance. If you
become suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents,
observe the following safety precautions:
- Don't open
the article.
- Isolate the
suspect parcel and evacuate the immediate area.
- Don't put it
in water or a confined space, such as a desk drawer or cabinet.
- If possible,
open windows in the immediate area to assist in venting potentially
explosive gases.
- Don't worry
about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent.
Instead, contact the Postal Inspection Service and your local police
department.
| Inspection
Service Home Page |
|
|
