Information Bulletin

In the event of a situation with grossly contaminated premises or persons, a HAZMAT response is appropriate. In other situations, personal protective equipment beyond gloves is not required and the following guidelines are recommended. These guidelines were developed by knowledgeable professionals from the Department of Health Services and the Emergency Medical Services Authority, in consultation with OES.

If confronted with suspicious envelope or package, in all cases-

• Notify FBI
• Notify County Public Health Department

If package/envelope opened, material present-

• Wet any potentially contaminated area or article of clothing lightly, remove potentially contaminated clothing and bag
• Wash hands with soap and warm water
• Shower with soap and water - may do at home.
• Triple Bag specimen for delivery to an appropriate lab in consultation with FBI and your County Public Health Department

If package/envelope opened, material not present, in the setting of a threat-

• Triple Bag envelope
• Wash hands with soap and warm water
• Triple Bag specimen for delivery to an appropriate lab in consultation with FBI and your County Public Health Department

If package/envelope not opened, in the setting of a threat-

• Triple bag evidence
• Wash hands with soap and warm water
• Triple Bag specimen for delivery to an appropriate lab in consultation with FBI and your County Public Health Department

In all cases:

• Field decontamination of multiple persons is not needed or recommended
• Bleach or other solutions should not be used on persons
• Hospital evaluation of persons is not needed or recommended

Your chance of contracting any disease from an envelope or other container is extremely low.

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