Alert Number: I-102326-2-PSA |

Suspicious Letters Containing White Powder Mailed to State and Local Election Officials, Media Organizations, and Public and Private Polling Companies

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) are investigating multiple letters containing suspicious substances mailed to various locations nationwide, including elected officials, Secretaries of State and their related election offices, and various election-related entities. Law enforcement is working diligently to intercept any additional letters before they are delivered. To date, no hazardous material has been identified; however, laboratory testing remains ongoing. All suspicious substances should be treated as hazardous and must be handled in accordance with established safety protocols.

Preparing to Handle Suspicious Mail

  • Any individual handling mail at election-related or similar locations should have personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a smock or apron, mask, and nitrile gloves. These items help protect individuals from potential exposure to hazards.
  • Mail handling offices should have procedures in place to handle mail and respond to potentially hazardous materials exposure, and all personnel should be trained on these procedures.

What to Do If a Piece of Mail Contains an Unknown Substance

  • Call 911 to request local law enforcement and emergency medical services (EMS).
  • Avoid actions that may cause powder to become airborne — do not move the mail piece around, shake out its contents, or blow on it. If possible, place a garbage can or other container over the mail piece and/or spilled powder. Leave items in place.
  • Leave the room where the potential hazardous material is located and close the door.
  • Isolate the immediate area and provide warnings to personnel not to enter the area. If possible, turn off ventilation or HVAC systems or contact building maintenance.
  • Do not touch your eyes, mouth, nose, or any skin after touching any potentially contaminated surface.
  • Remove any clothing or other items worn that may be contaminated with powder or other suspicious material, including PPE. Place the items inside a plastic bag or under a garbage can. If possible, avoid pulling clothes over your head.
  • Wash skin thoroughly with cool water and soap. Do not use hand sanitizers or any alcohol-based cleaners or bleach, as they may enhance absorption.
  • Account for all individuals who were in the room where the potential exposure occurred and keep them together, outside if possible, until emergency responders arrive.
  • If possible, avoid direct contact with any other individual.
  • Report the incident to the FBI and USPIS as soon as possible.

Report It to the FBI and USPIS

Additional Resources