FOLLOWING the anthrax cases in America, Lancaster City Council has implemented precautionary procedures to protect its staff.

And the local authority is encouraging others to follow police advice.

Although the national assessment is that the terrorist or criminal use of chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear materials within the United Kingdom is low, the council believes it is prudent that all staff remain vigilant and know the steps to take should they identify a suspect package.

The city council's precautionary procedures relating to suspicious packages are in line with County Council and police advice and have been issued to all local authority personnel who open mail.

These are - do not open the package, seal in plastic bag if possible, contact the police, leave the room and secure it.

Inividuals must be ready to answer questions such as, has the package been opened? Why is it suspicious? Who is it addressed to? Description of package - it is substantial, strange looking, are there any obvious fumes, are there any oily stains, threatening messages or incorrect spelling of common words? How was it delivered, i.e. Royal Mail, courier, hand delivered etc? Was it expected? Is the origin of the package significant, postmark, sender address? Is this an isolated item or one of a series? Where is the package now? Any supporting information/ i.e. was package posted or received on a significant date, religious festival, anniversary etc.

If anyone who has been in contact with a suspect package is feeling ill they should contact the Ambulance Service and report their suspicions.