Take precautions with mail

In light of the recent cases of anthrax spores sent through the U.S. mail, monitoring mail for suspicious items has been stepped up, both in federal and U.Va. postal offices. Everyone, however, should follow these guidelines and take precautions.

If a light coating of a powdery substance is detected on a mailing:

1. Double-bag the letter or package in a zip-lock-type plastic bag using latex gloves.

2. Wash your hands with soap and water.

3. Notify immediate supervisor, University Mail Services and local police. University Mail Services will contact postal inspectors.

4. Ensure that all persons who have touched the letter wash their hands with soap and water.

5. Make a list all persons who have touched the letter or package, with their contact information.

Other mail should be considered suspicious if:

• It has restrictive markings, such as “personal,” has badly typed or written addresses or misspelled words;

• The postmark is from a city different from the return address, or the return address is unfamiliar or fictitious;

• It is addressed to a title only, such as vice president, or has the wrong title with the person’s name;

• The postage is excessive;

• The envelope is rigid, lopsided or bulky, has protruding wires, oily stains or a strange odor.

Anyone suspicious of a mailing and unable to verify the contents with the addressee or sender should follow these guidelines:

• Do not open it;

• Treat it as suspect;

• Isolate it;

• Call University Mail Services, who will call postal inspectors;

• Call the University Police at 911.

Mail entered into the postal stream is constantly monitored by the U.S. Postal Service, and mail received by University Mail Services is also inspected for suspicious-looking markings. Any suspicious mail is returned to the USPS. U.Va. office mail is being screened twice before it is delivered.

Local law enforcement agencies are on the highest alert, and all people are called on “to immediately notify the FBI and local law enforcement of any unusual or suspicious activity,” said Yoke San Reynolds, vice president for finance. She has already sent the information to deans, department heads and directors. Questions should be referred to her office at 924-0716.