Handling Suspicious Packages and Items

1. How to identify a suspicious package

Recognising Suspicious Packages

Security officers play a crucial role in identifying and reporting suspicious packages that may pose security threats. Suspicious packages can be left unattended in public places or may be delivered through the mail. Knowing the key signs of a suspicious package helps in ensuring public safety.

H.O.T Protocol for Suspicious Packages

Use the H.O.T. protocol to determine whether a package is suspicious:

🔹 HIDDEN – Has the item been deliberately concealed or left in an unusual place?

🔹 OBVIOUSLY SUSPICIOUS – Does the package look unusual? Signs may include:

  • Wires, batteries, or liquids leaking.
  • Excessive wrapping, unusual weight, or uneven shape.
  • Strange smells or sounds (e.g., ticking or hissing).

🔹 TYPICAL FOR LOCATION? – Is the item out of place? For example:

  • A large suitcase at an event with no owner nearby.
  • A bag left in a high-security area without explanation.

If a package meets one or more of these criteria, treat it as potentially dangerous.

Immediate Actions to Take

🚨 If you identify a suspicious package:

✅ Do NOT touch, move, or open it.
✅ Clear the area and create a safety perimeter (at least 100m for small packages, 200m for large items).
✅ Keep out of direct sight of the package and away from glass or exposed areas.
✅ Report to your supervisor immediately and call emergency services (999).
✅ Do NOT use mobile phones or radios within 15 metres of the package, as they may trigger an explosive device.
✅ Assist emergency responders by providing accurate details about the package’s location and characteristics.

Reporting Suspicious Packages

When reporting to supervisors or emergency services, include:

📌 Exact location of the package.
📌 Description of the item (size, colour, markings, unusual signs).
📌 When it was first noticed and if anyone interacted with it.
📌 Any recent suspicious activity near the item.

💡 Key Tip: Always stay vigilant and follow proper security procedures to prevent harm and protect public spaces from potential threats.

2. Steps to take if you find an unattended or suspect item

Security officers play a crucial role in identifying and responding to potential security threats. Handling an unattended or suspicious item requires a clear process to ensure public safety and prevent potential harm.

Identify the Suspicious Item

🔍 Assess the Item

  • Is it out of place or unusual for the environment?
  • Is it concealed, abandoned, or deliberately placed in a high-risk area?
  • Does it have wires, batteries, ticking sounds, unusual smells, or excessive tape?

🔍 Apply the H.O.T. Protocol:
✔ HIDDEN – Has it been placed in an unusual or concealed location?
✔ OBVIOUSLY SUSPICIOUS – Does it have unusual markings, wires, or components?
✔ TYPICAL FOR LOCATION – Would this item normally be in this environment?

If one or more of these conditions apply, treat it as a suspect item.

Secure the Area and Maintain Safety

🚨 DO NOT:
❌ Touch, move, or investigate the item.
❌ Use mobile phones or radios near the item (could trigger explosives).
❌ Assume it is harmless—always follow security protocols.

✅ DO:
✔ Create a Safe Zone – Establish an exclusion zone:

  • 100m for small packages
  • 200m for larger objects or vehicles
  • 400m for large vehicles or major threats
    ✔ Prevent Public Access – Stop anyone from approaching the item.
    ✔ Seek Protective Cover – Move away from windows, glass, and open areas.
    ✔ Evacuate If Necessary – Follow site-specific security procedures.

Report to Supervisors and Authorities

📞 Notify Security or Site Management:

  • Provide an accurate description (size, colour, markings, exact location).
  • Report any suspicious individuals seen in the area.

🚔 Contact Emergency Services (999) Immediately:

  • Clearly state why the item is suspicious.
  • Provide information on location, potential threats, and actions taken.
  • Follow all instructions from emergency responders.

📌 Other Security Contacts:

Assist Law Enforcement and Emergency Responders

🚓 When authorities arrive:

  • Provide them with all gathered information.
  • Share CCTV footage or eyewitness accounts.
  • Continue to secure the area and maintain public safety.
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