The Postal Inspection Service wants to remind all USPS employees to remain vigilant during protests, demonstrations and other public disruptions.
Keeping yourself and your colleagues out of harm’s way should be your top priority.
Following are tips on how to keep calm and carry on if there is chaos or suspicious activity around you:
• Be aware of your surroundings. Think about situations where you may be at risk.
• Leave the area if you see suspicious activity around a postal facility or postal vehicle. Find someplace safe and call 911, then call your supervisor.
• Jot down any details you can remember. This can include a description of the suspect and direction of travel.
Here are some tips to keep your facility safe:
• Be vigilant. Display your USPS photo ID. Report any suspicious activities, including strangers and visitors who aren’t wearing badges, to a supervisor.
• Help protect your facility. Secure entry points and loading dock doors when not in use. Ensure alarms and camera systems are operational. Secure all accountable mail. Lock security gates each night with a case-hardened padlock and secure unattended vehicles at all times.
• Practice accountability. Immediately report stolen or vandalized vehicles to a supervisor. Keep empty trailers open where possible. (Under certain circumstances, such as inclement weather and local vagrancy, empty trailers should be locked when not in use.) Secure money orders and cash drawers at the end of the day and follow proper closing procedures for retail counter lines.
• Maintain a current master inventory of all accountable keys. Ensure all keys are accounted for and secured at the end of every day. Place all accountable mail in a locked security container or safe.
The Inspection Service distributed a stand-up talk April 20 that highlights these and other tips.
