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Bomb Threat

A bomb threat is a warning, usually verbal or written, to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage, death, or injuries. Bomb threats can be received by phone, note, or email; however, phone threats are most common. All bomb threats are to be taken seriously. It is best to let emergency response personnel determine the validity of any threat by conducting a thorough investigation.

If you receive a bomb threat, take the following actions:

  • Take notes. If the threat is received by phone, keep the caller on the phone for as long as possible, taking note of any details the caller provides about the bomb, characteristics of the caller’s voice and speech, and identifying background sounds.
  • Dial *57 to trace call. Do not hang up on the caller. When the caller hangs up, you may then hang up and immediately dial *57 (do not dial ‘9’ as you would normally do to call outside the campus). Listen to the recording, and write down the 1-800 number. You may then hang up.
  • Call 911. Report the threat to law enforcement authorities, and give them the 1-800 number you received in the previous step as well as the specific time that you dialed *57. Provide the police dispatcher with all of the information you took note of when interacting with the caller.
  • Secure sensitive areas. If you work in a sensitive area, such as a research lab, kitchen, or cash register, secure these areas before leaving to help prevent theft.
  • Exit the building. If instructed by emergency response personnel, evacuate the building immediately. Be sure to secure or take with you any personal items.
  • Go to the designated assembly area. Go to and remain at the designated assembly area until instructed by emergency responders to move to another location. Attempt to account for all building occupants once at the assembly point. Obey the instructions of emergency response personnel at all times.

At no time should you

  • Delete any emails that contain a bomb threat
  • Use a two-way radio or cell phone as radio signals emitted by these devices can detonate a bomb
  • Activate any fire or burglary alarm system

Posted on Oct 28, 2010 - 12:45 PM

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