How to Identify a Letter Bomb

Note large packages., Check the company at the return address., Watch out for large amounts of stamps., Inspect the parcel for lumps or unusual bulges., Check how the package is secured., Look for any openings and tears in the package., Take note of...

11 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Note large packages.

    Letter bombs can be small, but flat, thin envelopes are very unlikely to contain them.
  2. Step 2: Check the company at the return address.

    If they do not exist be very wary.

    Try searching for reviews on the companies services to make sure they are legit.

    Be aware that companies will almost never hand write addresses, and will usually (although not always) use pre-pay stamps. , As said above, pre-pay stamps usually are a good sign, while many smaller stamps could be a cause for concern. , Letter bombs are usually bulky, and can be of an irregular shape, with many protrusions.

    When inspecting, never apply pressure to the parcel, or push down on any lumps or bumps, as this could trigger an explosion. , Most companies do not use string, but secure boxes, or neatly applied tape.

    String is a sign of poor packaging, and maybe someone who does not have the equipment to professionally package a parcel. , If there is an opening, take a look to see whether you can see wires, or any other suspicious items. , If there are any fingerprints of oil, or oil soaking through the package then immediately move away, or place the item safely outside.

    This is the same with protruding wires. ,
  3. Step 3: Watch out for large amounts of stamps.

  4. Step 4: Inspect the parcel for lumps or unusual bulges.

  5. Step 5: Check how the package is secured.

  6. Step 6: Look for any openings and tears in the package.

  7. Step 7: Take note of stains

  8. Step 8: especially oil marks.

  9. Step 9: If you have clearly identified the item as a bomb

  10. Step 10: or can confirm it is dangerous

  11. Step 11: call emergency services and report it.

Detailed Guide

Letter bombs can be small, but flat, thin envelopes are very unlikely to contain them.

If they do not exist be very wary.

Try searching for reviews on the companies services to make sure they are legit.

Be aware that companies will almost never hand write addresses, and will usually (although not always) use pre-pay stamps. , As said above, pre-pay stamps usually are a good sign, while many smaller stamps could be a cause for concern. , Letter bombs are usually bulky, and can be of an irregular shape, with many protrusions.

When inspecting, never apply pressure to the parcel, or push down on any lumps or bumps, as this could trigger an explosion. , Most companies do not use string, but secure boxes, or neatly applied tape.

String is a sign of poor packaging, and maybe someone who does not have the equipment to professionally package a parcel. , If there is an opening, take a look to see whether you can see wires, or any other suspicious items. , If there are any fingerprints of oil, or oil soaking through the package then immediately move away, or place the item safely outside.

This is the same with protruding wires. ,

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Amanda Scott

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