Biological Agents

It is important to remember that the likelihood of a terrorist attack in Canada using biological or chemical agents is very remote. Regarding the agents most likely to be used in the event of such an attack, Canada and the United States have agreed on a list of top bioterrorist agents, including anthrax, smallpox, plague, tularemia, botulism and certain viruses that cause viral haemorrhagic fevers. Of the biological agents examined, anthrax is the most likely to be used in a bioterrorist attack. Tularemia or plague is a low probability, botulism is lower still, and both smallpox and the viral haemorrhagic fever agents were assessed a very low probability.

This information has been taken from the Public Health Agency of Canada website as a means of providing the population access to safe and reliable information should they wish to investigate/prepare themselves further.

Periodically we will hear about suspicious packages being delivered to persons and businesses; it is good practice to be vigilant and aware in such circumstances where packages are unexpected or out of the ordinary.  The Centre for Disease Control and Government of Canada have provided information on what to do should you be concerned about a suspicious package. 

Suspicious Package

You know what kind of package you normally receive, consider the following when identifying a Suspicious package:
Unfamiliar return address or none at all
Strange odour or noise
Protruding wires Excessive postage
Misspelled words
Addressed to a business title only (e.g. President)
Restrictive markings (e.g. Do not X-ray)
Badly typed or written
Rigid or bulky letters
Lopsided or uneven
Excessive wrapping, tape or string
Oily stains, discolouration or crystallization on wrapping
Leaking

Suspicious Letter:
You see powder or a liquid.
It contains a threatening note.
It contains an object that you did not expect to receive or cannot identify

If you have concerns about the package or letter you have received:
Do not handle, shake, smell or taste it.
Leave the letter or package where it is.
Get everyone out of the room and close the door.
Call 9-1-1  
Wash your hands with soap and water.
If applicable, alert building security or the superintendent.
Wait in a safe place until the police or fire response teams arrive.

If you have opened a suspicious package:
Leave the package where it is.
Remove any clothing that has powder or liquid on it and seal it in a plastic bag.
Get everyone out of the room and close the door.
Wash your hands or shower with soap and water.
Call 9-1-1  
If applicable, alert building security or the superintendent.
Wait in a safe place until the police or firefighters arrive.

The police, other emergency workers and public health authorities will give advice about what to do next.