While threats to detonate a bomb are usually not enacted, each and every threat potentially jeopardizes the life of all those in and around the targeted area. As such, each threat must be taken seriously and precautionary procedures implemented. Bomb threats usually are generated via telephone and email, but can also be sent using a variety of different methods, such as a letter, text message, etc.

Individual and Group Safety Guidelines

The following are important safety considerations for individuals:

• A bomb or incendiary device can take almost any form and can be triggered in a wide variety of ways. Therefore, under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should a suspicious object be touched or removed. People should be removed from the bomb, not vice versa.
• Communication in any area where a bomb may be present will be by telephone to prevent detonation by radio frequency.
• The decision to evacuate a building will be made by the Incident Commander, in consultation with the president or senior available administrator, if available. The decision will be made with consideration given to a variety of factors, such as:
  • Recommendation of Incident Commander
  • Credibility of Threat
  • Recent History of Bomb Threats
  • Current Social/Political Climate
  • General Public Safety Matters

If evacuation is chosen, an announcement will be made in each area that there is a potentially serious electrical problem in the building and that the building must be closed. Occupants will be asked to proceed to the nearest exit, taking their personal belongings with them and leaving doors and windows open to dissipate the energy of a potential explosion. Appropriate staff will be posted if deviation from standard exit routes is necessary. Staff conducting the evacuation should behave in a calm and assured manner so as not to promote panic. If groups of people need to be relocated temporarily, the Incident Commander will establish a campus assembly point.

• In the event of an explosion, all follow-up activity will be taken with great caution because of the possible existence of a secondary device.
• Notify the program manager responsible for animal safety precautions within any animal-based university research labs. The program manager is responsible for ensuring the continuity of this research and academic programming.

Bomb Threat Check List

Questions to ask:

1. When is bomb going to explode?
2. Where is it right now?
3. What does it look like?
4. What kind of bomb is it?
5. What will cause it to explode?
6. Did you place the bomb?
7. Why?
8. What is your address?
9. What is your name?

Exact Wording of the Threat.