Err on the Side of Caution

If you observe a suspicious object, this could be a potential bomb. DO NOT HANDLE OR APPROACH THE OBJECT! Immediately clear the surrounding area and contact the Department of Public Safety at (810) 762-0222, activate the nearest emergency call box, or dial “0” from any MCC office phone. Report the location and description of the object.

Identifying a Suspicious Package and Letters:

  • Excessive Postage.
  • Handwritten or poorly typed addresses.
  • Incorrect titles.
  • Title, but no name.
  • Misspellings of common words.
  • Oily stains, discolorations or odor.
  • Powdery substance on the package.
  • Excessive weight.
  • Lopsided or uneven packaging.
  • Protruding wires or aluminum foil.
  • Visual distractions.
  • Ticking sound.
  • Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etc.
  • Marked with restrictive endorsements such as “Personal,” “Confidential,” or “Do not X-ray.”
  • Strange return address or no return address.
  • Shows a city or state in the postmark that does not match the return address.
  • Is marked with a threatening message.

When a Package Has been Identified as Suspicious:

  • Stay calm and do not panic.
  • Do not move, shake, or handle, the suspicious package or letter.
  • Do not sniff, touch, taste or look inside.
  • Do not show it to others.
  • Call the Department of Public Safety at (810) 762-0222 or from a Campus Emergency Phone.
  • If there is reason to suspect that a package may contain an explosive device, leave the area immediately.
  • If powder or a suspicious substance spills from a package or letter do the following:
    1. Do not clean up the powder or substance.
    2. Turn off any fans or ventilation units in the area (if readily available).
    3. If you know how, shut down the air handling system in the building.
    4. Leave the area immediately. Close the door or section off the area to prevent others from entering.
    5. Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading the powder or substance to your face.
    6. Remove heavily contaminated clothing as soon as possible. Place the contaminated clothing in a plastic bag or a container that can be sealed. Give the clothing bag to the Department of Public Safety.
    7. If contaminated, shower with soap and water as soon as possible. Do not use bleach or other disinfectant on your skin.
    8. List all people who were in the area when the suspicious package was recognized and give this information to the Department of Public Safety.