Inspectors Caution Us to 'Play It Safe' at Work

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service reminds all employees to “play it safe” whether you're delivering mail or working in a postal facility. Pay attention to your surroundings when traveling to and from a postal installation. And leave your jewelry at home.

“If someone makes a threat, treat it seriously,” says Miami Division Inspector-In-Charge Enrique Gutierrez. “Even if you don’t see a weapon — even if you don’t feel like you’re in any danger — comply with the individual(s) and do what is asked.”

Here's some advice if you're present during a robbery or other threat:
-- Comply. Comply. Comply. Do nothing to endanger yourself or others. Give the suspect(s) what they demand as quickly and calmly as possible.
-- Stay calm. Do exactly as you are told. Say nothing to agitate the suspect(s). Make no sudden or suspicious moves that could be interpreted as hostile.
-- Do not attempt to intervene or follow the suspect(s). If you can do so without detection, form a mental image of the face, voice, accent, mannerisms, clothes and direction of escape of the suspect(s).
-- Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so; then call the National Law Enforcement Communications Center at (877) 876-2455; then follow internal notification procedures to ensure upper level managers are aware.
-- Politely decline all requests for comment from customers or media. Direct their questions to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

As soon a possible after the event, write down everything you saw and heard but please do not discuss the matter with others until after you are interviewed by law enforcement and an investigator with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. This helps preserve the unique point of view of each witness. Discussion tends to blur the facts as each person, hearing what others say, unintentionally alters their own recollections to fit into one coherent story. Investigators need facts, not interpretation. Stay focused on exactly what you saw and heard.

Also adhere to the following basic security measures:
-- Secure all building access points. Do not allow piggybacking through facility entrances. Ensure the door you enter locks behind you, preventing others from unauthorized entry.
-- Wear your Postal ID at all times and challenge anyone without proper identification. Do not allow unauthorized persons to gain access to your facility.
-- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Notify your Postmaster, manager, or supervisor if you observe any suspicious activity. In turn, management will notify local authorities, the Postal Inspection Service, and senior postal leadership, per our Standard Operating Procedure.
-- Lock all vehicles (postal and personal) when not attended.
-- Ensure all postal vehicle keys are stored in a locked cabinet.
-- Ensure emergency phone numbers are posted at each telephone.