Postmaster General John Potter told Americans on Wednesday there was no guarantee that their mail was safe from anthrax and they should wash their hands after handling it. "We're telling people that there is a threat -- that right now the threat is in the mail," Potter said. "There are no guarantees that mail is safe."
Financial aid offices may have already been given guidance on how to handle suspicious mail. If not, following are instructions the the U.S. Postal Service will be mailing to every household next week.
Don't handle a letter or package that you suspect is contaminated.
Don't shake it, bump it, or sniff it.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Notify local law enforcement authorities
In addition, the Center for Disease Control recommends that you:
List all persons who have touched a suspicious letter and/or envelope. Include contact information and have this information available for the authorities.
Place all items worn when in contact with the suspected mail piece in plastic bags and have them available for law enforcement agents.
As soon as practical, shower with soap and water.
Notify the Center for Disease Control Emergency Response at 770-488-7100 for answers to any questions.
The Postal Service also issued a list of traits to look for when identifying suspicious mail.
It's unexpected or from someone you don't know
It's addressed to someone no longer at your address.
It's handwritten and has no return address or bears one that you can't confirm is legitimate.
It's lopsided or lumpy in appearance
It's sealed with excessive amounts of tape.
It's marked with restrictive endorsements such as "Personal" or Confidential.
Additional information is available on the Postal Service's official web site at www.USPS.com.
Posted October 25, 2001 on the NASFAA Web Site www.nasfaa.org
Please submit questions or comments to ask@nasfaa.org
