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A "suspicious package" is an envelope or package sent through the mail that "raises suspicion" (makes people feel uncomfortable because there seems to be a problem), specifically because it might contain a dangerous chemical or a "bomb" (something that can explode, causing injury or death).

People who work in "mail rooms" (departments that sort a large amount of mail and send letters and packages to the appropriate recipients) are trained to "spot" (find and identify) suspicious packages. They look for oil "stains" (marks) or "discoloration" (spots of a different color) on the envelope, or the use of large amount of tape or string. They also look for packages that smell strange or that have an unusual shape. Other signs of suspicious packages are addresses that hare "handwritten" (not typed) with strange, misspelled addresses, no "return address" (the name and address of the sender), and envelopes with "excessive postage" (far too many stamps). Often the suspicious packages are marked with phrases like "confidential," "private," or "for (a certain person's) eyes only," meaning that the sender wants only the recipient to open the envelope or package.

People who receive a suspicious package are advised to stop "handling" (touching and moving) the package immediately. They should leave the room or building and call "9-1-1" (the emergency phone number that puts people in touch with the police and other emergency services) as soon as possible. Then the police will send a "bomb squad" (people who are trained to "deactivate" (make inactive) explosive devices) to the site to further evaluate the envelope or package.