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Emergency Management

Bomb Threat and Suspicious Package

IF A BOMB THREAT IS RECEIVED BY PHONE

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

MAIL OR PACKAGE THREAT

  • All suspicious packages and bomb threats must be treated as a serious matter.
  • Signs of a suspicious package:
    • No return addresses
    • Excessive postage
    • Stains
    • Strange odor
    • Strange sounds
    • Unexpected delivery
    • Poorly handwritten
    • Misspelled words
    • Incorrect titles
    • Foreign postage
    • Restrictive notes
  • To ensure the safety of the campus population, all suspicious packages and bomb threats will be considered real until proven otherwise.
  • If a suspicious object or potential bomb is discovered, remain calm.
  • DO NOT HANDLE THE OBJECT.
  • CLEAR THE AREA.
  • Call 911 immediately and report it to law enforcement.
  • In most cases, these incidents are meant to disrupt normal activities.
  • Building evacuation will be determined only by proper authorities.
  • Do NOT use cell phones, radios or other wireless devices near the suspicious package.
  • Any employee who had direct contact with the package should wash their exposed skin with soap and water after reaching a safe place.