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 parcel or envelope, and its outward appearance is limited only by the imagination of the sender. However, mail bombs have some unique characteristics which may assist you in identifying a suspect mailing. To apply these factors, it is important to know the type of mail your organization and your home receive.

• Mail bombs may bear restricted endorsements such as "Personal" or "Private". This factor is important when the addressee does not usually receive personal mail at the office.
• Addressee's name/title may be inaccurate.
• Return address may be fictitious.
• Mail bombs may reflect/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.
• 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."
• Package bombs may have an irregular shape, soft spots or bulges.
• Package bombs may make a buzzing or ticking noise or a sloshing sound.
• Pressure of resistance may be noted when removing contents from an envelope or parcel.

If you are suspicious of a mailing and are unable to verify the contents with the addressee or sender:

1. Do not open the article.
2. Isolate the mailing and evacuate the area immediately.
3. Do not put in water or a confined space such as a desk drawer or a 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 parcel 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.