Most bomb threats are received by phone. Bomb threats are serious until proven otherwise. Act quickly, but remain calm and obtain as much information as possible.

Do Not

• Do not use cell phones or two-way radios; radio signals have the potential to detonate the bomb.

• Do not evacuate the building until police arrive and evaluate the threat. Most often, authorities will require you to assist in locating anything suspicious or out of place.

• Do not activate the fire alarm. Do not touch or remove a suspicious package.

In the event of a bomb threat received by phone

• Remain calm.

• Utilize the Bomb Threat Checklist to obtain specific information from the caller or from the individual who received the call.

• 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, while listening to the caller, try to attract someone’s attention in your immediate area discreetly and quietly.

  • Write a note to a colleague to call the 911 immediately. As soon as the caller hangs up, immediately notify them yourself. If possible, do this from a separate phone.

  • If possible have another person contact Building Management at the same time, or as quickly as possible.

• If your phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the window display.

• Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist immediately. Write down as much detail as you can remember. Try to use exact words.

In the event of a handwritten note or threat

• Handle the note as minimally as possible.

• Call 911.

In the event of E-mailed Threat

• Do not delete the message.

• Call 911.

Bomb Threat Checklist