What should a mail carrier do when encountering a dog on their route?

When encountering a dog on their route, a mail carrier should follow safety protocols, such as avoiding the house. This is crucial because dogs can act unpredictably, especially when they are not familiar with the carrier. Safety protocols often involve assessing the situation; if the dog appears aggressive or poses a threat, the safest course of action is to maintain a safe distance and avoid approaching the property. This helps ensure the mail carrier's safety and prevents potential injuries that could arise from an unexpected dog attack.

Following safety protocols is in line with established guidelines for mail carriers, which emphasize the importance of being cautious around animals during their deliveries. It is also important for mail carriers to inform their supervisors if a route consistently has aggressive dogs, which helps in planning alternative delivery methods or notifying homeowners of the situation. In contrast, interacting with the dog, ignoring it, or attempting to contact the owner may not address the immediate safety concern effectively.