Bomb Threat: A Community Guide

Photo by Steve Halama on Unsplash

       A bomb threat must be taken seriously and with care at all times since the manner of responding to it may spell the difference between life and death. Caution must be observed so as not to cause panic and terror that may add up to the severity of the situation.     

     If you are the recipient of a bomb threat, you may help responding authorities by doing the following: 

• Make sure that the bomb threat checklist is within your reach. 

• Have co-workers listen to the call. Ask someone to immediately notify security.

• Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.

• Remain calm and courteous as you ask the caller questions that will help  first responders such as

1. Where is the bomb located?
2. When will it explode?
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? Why?
7. What’s your name?
8. Where are you calling from?

Take note of the following during the call:

         Phone number of the caller
         Caller’s voice,
         Background sounds, and
         Language and accent used

• Time is of the essence, relay immediately all the important information to the first responders.

• If the bomb threat is via email, text messages, or any social media  messaging platforms, immediately contact security. 

• If you notice any suspicious individuals or abandoned packages report it to authorities.

• Cooperation with the security is of utmost importance as search and investigation is on-going. 

Photo by Rayner Simpson on Unsplash

• Upon the evaluation of the security, an evacuation may be necessary. 

• Evacuate the area calmly and proceed to the designated assembly area. 

• Never leave the assembly area until given the go-signal to do so. 

• If the threat is credible, law enforcement authorities may be called in to help in the search and investigation. 

• For any other life-threatening scenario, it is always best to call 911 or your local emergency hotline.   

     It is always important to be always ready for any eventuality. Remember, safety and security is everyone's responsibility.