Suspicious Package, Letter, or Object

Identifying Suspicious Packages or Letters

  • Excessive postage

  • Handwritten or poorly typed addresses

  • Incorrect titles

  • Title, but no name

  • Misspellings of common words

  • Leaky powder or substance

  • Oily stains, discolorations or odor

  • No return address

  • Excessive weight

  • Lopsided or uneven envelope

  • Protruding wires or aluminum foil

  • Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etc.

  • Visual distractions

  • Ticking sound

  • Marked with restrictive endorsements, such as “Personal” or “Confidential”

  • Shows a city or state in the postmark that does not match the return address

What To Do If You See a Suspicious Object or Package

  • DO NOT touch or disturb the object or package.

  • DO NOT allow others to touch or handle the object or package.

  • If the package or object is leaking, do not attempt to pick up, sweep, or contain any spillage.

  • Leave the suspicious object or package and evacuate the area.

  • Call Public Safety at 319-296-4234. Give full description of object or package including shape, color, location, any obvious irregularities, odors, wires, etc.

  • Notify your supervisor.

  • Follow the directions of the emergency services personnel present.

Contact Information

Learn more about the Hawkeye Alert

Police / Fire / Medical / Suspicious Behavior

911

Hawkeye Public Safety

319-296-4234

Hawkeye Alerts and Information

319-296-4444

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