The likelihood of your ever receiving a bomb in the mail is remote. Unfortunately, however, a small number of explosive devices have been mailed over the years resulting in death, injury, and destruction of property.
What can you do to help prevent a mail bomb disaster? First, consider whether you or your organization could be a possible target. Some motives for mail bombs include revenge, extortion, love triangles, terrorism, and business disputes.
Keep in mind that a bomb can be enclosed in either a package or an envelope, and it's outward appearance is limited only by the imagination of the bomber. However, some unique characteristics of mail bombs may assist the identification of a suspect mailing. To apply these characteristics, it is important to know the type of mail your organization or your home receives.

• Mail bombs may bear restricted endorsements such as "Personal" or "Private". These characteristics are important when the addressee does not usually receive personal mail at the office.

• Addressee's name or title may be inaccurate.

• Return address may be fictitious or not available.

• Mail bombs may have distorted handwriting or the name and address may be prepared with homemade labels or cut-and-paste lettering.

• Mail bombs may have protruding wires, aluminum foil, or oil stains and may emit a peculiar odor.

• Cancellation or postmark may show a different location than the return address.

• Mail bombs may have excessive postage.

• Letter bombs may feel rigid, or appear uneven or lopsided.

• Package 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".

• Package bombs may make a sloshing sound. Although placed devices may buzz or tick, mailed bombs generally do not.

• Pressure or resistance may be noted when removing contents from an envelope or package.

IF YOU ARE SUSPICIOUS OF A MAILING AND ARE UNABLE TO VERIFY THE CONTENTS WITH THE ADDRESSEE OR SENDER:

1. DO NOT OPEN.

2. Isolate the mailing and evacuate the immediate area.

3. Do not put it in water or a confined space such as a desk drawer or filing cabinet.

4. If possible, open windows in the immediate area to assist in venting potential explosive gases.

5. If you have any reason to believe a letter or package is suspicious, do not take a chance or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent - instead, contact your local police department and Postal Inspector for professional assistance.