You are here: 51²è¹Ý Finance Mail Services Mail Security

Contact Us

202-885-2575

mailservices@american.edu

Mon to Fri: 8 - 12:30 and 1:30 - 5 p.m.;
Sat (Fall/Spring): 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.;
Sat (Summer): Closed;
Sun: Closed;
Locker access for student packages (with 51²è¹Ý ID card):
7 a.m. - 7 p.m. (8 p.m. in summer), 7 days a week

Mail Services 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016 United States

Back to top

Mail Security

Safe Mail Handling - General Tips

  • Never accept mail or package deliveries from unknown persons who cannot provide proper identification and proof of employment by a delivery organization.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water (for at least 30 seconds) after handling the mail.
  • Be alert and report any mail and packages left unattended.

Suspicious Mail "Red Flags"

  • Excessive postage, using postage stamps as opposed to meter indicia
  • Address is poorly typed or handwritten, has misspellings
  • Oily stains, crystallization on wrapper or strange odors
  • No return address
  • Exceptionally large, lopsided, rigid, bulky or discolored
  • Sloshing sounds or indication of containing liquid
  • Evidence of electrical wire or tin foil
  • Excessive wrapping materials, such as masking tape, strapping tape, or string

What to Do…

  • Do not smell, touch, or move the substance, letter, or package.
  • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds.
  • Notify your manager and advise coworkers to stay away from your work area.
  • Call Public Safety at x3636.
  • Turn off any circulating fans, air conditioners, or heaters (if applicable).
  • Ensure that all persons who have touched the substance wash their hands with soap and water.
  • List all persons who have touched the substance, letter, or package.

For additional information and updates, please contact Mail Services at (202) 885-2575 or visit the United States Postal Service web site at