FBI message concerning white powder

[GalvestonDuck]

A.J. Harrison on the CrisisAlertNetwork email list posted this earlier and A.J.'s not one to post unnecessary stuff, so I thought I'd pass this along. It's not an alert, but more like a "non-alert" -- as in "Don't panic. Relax. It's okay."

The FBI has asked that I get this out to the fire community. Please feel
free to pass on as you see fit to other public safety officials. I have
sent it to numerous email groups. If you receive duplicates, I apologize.

Synopsis: Brief description of running club "hash runs" and use of
white powder to mark routes during these runs.

Details: Local law enforcement and Hazardous Material Response Teams have
received calls concerning a white powder substance that has been found on
streets of some cities in significant amounts. The powder has been
determined to be flour and is being left by running groups to mark a running
course.

These runs are referred to as "hash runs" and are popular throughout
the United States. Several cities have these groups and there is no
overseeing organization that regulates their activity nationally. Individual
cities may have several groups and there is generally no set routine for the
course being run. The organizers mark the course using piles or lines of
flour. Runs most often occur on weekday nights.

Public awareness and a concern for safety have prompted several calls to
local law enforcement agencies regarding this unidentified powder (flour).
Recent calls have occurred in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. The associated response to determine the nature of the powder diverts law enforcement/fire resources and time away from legitimate concerns.

Terrorism Emergency Response and Preparedness Division
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
Office of Homeland Security

[streetsoldier]

Oh, what a relief...I thought my Gold Bond was to be considered a "terror tool".

[wx247]

No wonder I am not itching anymore.