How to deal with a powder package discovered while out on collection
Before proceeding or calling 999, you must conduct a risk assessment and call Central Postal Control (CPC) on 0345 266 1060 to agree how to proceed.
If CPC agree that the item is suspicious, you should follow the instructions below to ensure the safety of your people.
WARNING!
If the delivery/collection person has returned to Royal Mail Group premises, isolate them and record the names of any people that he/she has been in contact with.
Respond immediately
Return the item to the box
Advise the delivery/collection person to return the item to the box and close. If this is not possible, the item should be placed on a flat surface in the back of the collection vehicle. Advise the delivery/collection person to keep members of the public away from the item and/or box.
Find out more about the item
- Note details, such as the postmark, addressee, and sender. The sender or addressee may be able to verify the contents of the item.
- Has the powder leaked from a single item?
- Is there a large quantity of powder? Police do not generally consider a large amount of powder as suspicious. This is usually the result of the Fire Brigade using powder extinguishers to put out pillar box fires.
Find out more about the pillar box
- Has there been a pillar box fire recently? Most powder in boxes is due to the Fire Brigade extinguishing fires. Police therefore do not generally consider a large amount of powder as suspicious.
- Has the pillar box been vandalised recently?
- Has the powder leaked from a single item?
Call CPC to decide how to proceed
Brief Central Postal Control (CPC) on the situation and get its advice on how to proceed.
If CPC agree that the item may pose a risk
Call and support the police
If CPC do not agree the item poses a risk
Close the incident
If in doubt at any stage always call Central Postal Control (CPC)
Central Postal Control deals with issues on a regular basis and will be able to talk you through how to deal with any situation.