What items are prohibited from being mailed through USPS?

The correct answer identifies hazardous materials, live animals, and illegal items as prohibited from being mailed through USPS due to safety and legal regulations. The USPS has strict guidelines to ensure the safety of its employees and the general public, which makes it necessary to restrict the mailing of substances that can pose physical hazards or violate the law.

Hazardous materials, such as explosives, flammable substances, and toxic chemicals, present a clear risk during transport and handling. Live animals may complicate logistics, pose health risks, or suffer harm in transit, which is why they are heavily regulated or restricted. Illegal items, which could range from prohibited substances to stolen goods, are, of course, not permissible under any circumstances as they violate federal laws.

In contrast, non-perishable food items, personal letters, and magazine subscriptions can be lawfully mailed under normal conditions, assuming they adhere to other USPS guidelines. Therefore, the answer regarding prohibited mailing items is accurate and crucial for ensuring safe and lawful postal services.