Bomb Threat Preparedness

Please utilize the following resources to learn more about what to do in a bomb threat situation.

Bomb Threat Procedures

Most bomb threats are received by phone. Bomb threats are serious until proven otherwise. Act quickly, but remain calm and obtain information with the checklist below.

If a bomb threat is received by phone:

  1. Remain calm. Keep the caller on the line for as long as possible. DO NOT HANG UP, even if the caller does.
  2. Listen carefully. Be polite and show interest.
  3. Try to keep the caller talking to learn more information.
  4. If possible, write a note to a colleague to call the UPD or, as soon as the caller hangs up, immediately notify them yourself.
  5. If your phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the window display.
  6. Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist immediately. Write down as much detail as you can remember. Try to get exact words.
  7. Immediately, upon termination of the call, DO NOT HANG UP, but from a different phone, contact 911 immediately with information and await instructions.

If a bomb threat is received by handwritten note:

  1. Call 911 immediately.
  2. Handle the note as minimally as possible.

If a bomb threat is received by email:

  1. Call 911 immediately.
  2. Do NOT delete the message.

If you receive a suspicious package:

  1. Call 911 from a landline.
  2. Do NOT use a cellular phone or a two-way radio. Radio signals have the potential to detonate a bomb.
  3. Do NOT touch or remove a suspicious package.

Signs of a suspicious package:

  • No return address
  • Poorly handwritten
  • Restrictive notes
  • Excessive postage
  • Foreign postage
  • Misspelled words
  • Stains
  • Incorrect titles
  • Strange odor
  • Strange sounds
  • Unexpected delivery

 

Link to Bomb Threat Checklist