Responding to Suspicious Packages

IAFC Re-releases Guide for Responding to a Package with Suspicion of a Biological Threat
Fairfax, Va., Oct. 29, 2008... Due to recent instances of white powder being sent by mail to office buildings, the IAFC is re-releasing its Model Procedures for Responding to a Package with Suspicion of a Biological Threat. Access the document on the IAFC’s website at Resources > Download Documents under Hazardous Materials.
The IAFC first released this document in January 2004 in cooperation with the FBI’s Hazardous Materials Response Unit. The document provides a model procedure for first-arriving emergency personnel to respond to potential bioterror events primarily involving suspicious letters, packages or containers; it was created to serve as a model for all types of fire departments in all types of communities.
“It’s always important to take the proper precautions when responding to a white-powder incident,” said Chief Larry Grorud, IAFC President. “This easy-to-use guide is helpful for all fire departments to safely respond to one of these events.”