USPS Urges Michigan Residents to Check Mailboxes This Week

Most Michiganders treat the mailbox like a tiny roadside treasure chest. Some days it holds birthday cards and magazine subscriptions. Other days, it's nothing but bills, junk flyers, and a coupon for a roof you don't need.

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Before you stroll curbside and reach in for today's stack of envelopes, the United States Postal Service is asking Michigan residents to take a closer look inside.

Why USPS Wants Michigan Residents to Inspect Their Mailboxes

A rusted mailbox with black paint chipping off.

During National Mailbox Improvement Week, held annually in the third week of May, USPS is encouraging homeowners to inspect and maintain their mailboxes. That means tightening loose hinges, repainting weathered boxes, making sure house numbers are easy to read, and clearing out any unwanted guests.

And by "unwanted guests," we're talking about wasps, hornets, and bees that have decided your mailbox is the perfect starter home.

Protecting Michigan Mail Carriers From Painful Surprises

A mailbox covered with wood shingles is pictured.

Though not the most common injury (that would be dog bites), the agency says too many letter carriers nationwide are injured annually by stinging insects inside mailboxes. Carriers are trained to look for nests, but a quick inspection by homeowners can prevent a painful encounter for anyone putting their hands inside your mailbox.

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So before you grab this month's electric bill and another credit card offer you'll immediately shred, take five seconds to make sure your mailbox isn't buzzing with bad intentions.