M E M O R A N D U M
To: University Community From: Frank Wiley
Chief of PoliceDate: November 7, 2001 Subject: Security Recommendations
Awareness in this era of terrorism in America requires vigilance without fear. The following are some recommendations advanced by federal law enforcement agencies as to what may be considered suspicious. This is not an all encompassing list and your instincts are still the best guide.Generally What Should I Look For?
- Unattended packages of any kind. Bombs can be constructed to look like almost anything and can be placed or delivered in a number of ways.
- Be suspicious of any misplaced floor vents, transoms, and skylights. Most bombs are homemade and are limited in design only by the imagination and resources available to the bomb maker.
- (Suspect anything that looks unusual. Let a trained bomb technician determine what is or is not a bomb.
What About Suspicious Packages?
- Any letter that has a suspicious or threatening message written on it
- Letters with oily stains
- Envelopes that are lopsided, rigid, bulky, discolored or have a strange odor
- Envelopes with no return address
- Unexpected envelopes from foreign countries
- No postage or non-cancelled postage
- Improper spelling of common names
What About People?
The University at Albany is a very diverse community. You will see people every day with whom you are not familiar and who pose absolutely no threat of any kind. Be aware, however, of unfamiliar people who appear to be in locations they do not belong. If your instincts disturb you, call the police.
Suspicious Indicators Other Than Those Related to Bombs
- Dissemination of unscheduled and unusual sprays, especially outdoors or at night
- Abandoned spray devices with no distinct odors
- Abandoned lab equipment or hazardous material that is not relevant to the area
- Any explosion
- Individuals reporting unusual odors or tastes
The University Police Department encourages all citizens to be proactive and report any suspicious activity to the UAlbany Police at 442-3131.
