BOMB THREAT

Bomb threat calls are normally received by switchboard operators; therefore, these people need to be thoroughly familiar with the following procedure.

There appear to be two explanations for why someone would report that a bomb is going to go off in a particular building:

1. The caller has definite knowledge or has reason to believe that an explosive or incendiary has or will be placed, and they want to minimize personal injury or property damage
2. The caller wants to create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic at the organization where the device is reportedly located.

When receiving such a call, try to remember the following:

1. When the caller has communicated the threat, stay calm and do not panic. Record the time of day.
2. Keep the caller talking; the more s/he says, the more you can learn. Record every word that the caller says.
3. If the caller does not indicate the bomb’s location and the time of detonation, attempt to gain this information.
4. Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of the bomb could result in the death of innocent people. Try to reason with the person.
5. Listen closely to the voice of the caller to note the following: age, sex, race, accent, speech impediment or if the caller sounds drunk, nervous, etc.
6. Pay particular attention to any strange background noises, such as street noises, motors, TV, radio programs or anything else that may assist law enforcement agencies in determining the origin of the call.
7. Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist form as soon as your phone communications with the caller have ended if you do not have one available during the call.
8. Notify the Executive Vice President for Administration or other administrator of the call immediately after the caller hangs up. Upon further instructions from the administrator, call the emergency number (911) and be prepared to relay all pertinent information. Do not discuss the call with anyone else; carefully follow additional instructions from the police/fire authorities and campus administrator. Wait at the same location for law enforcement officers to arrive so that they may talk with you.