Follow these instructions in the event that you receive a telephone bomb threat:
- Listen to the caller carefully and write down what you are told. Always remember to ask the caller when and where the device is supposed to activate. Try to fill out as much of the information on the form below, but don’t be surprised if the caller simply hangs up before you can react. This is typical.
- Do not panic. The vast majority of phoned-in bomb threats are pranks.
- Call 911 and report what the caller said. Stay on the telephone with the dispatcher. You may receive instructions from the dispatcher or an officer over the phone, depending on the circumstances. An officer will always be dispatched immediately to meet with you.
- Do not activate a fire alarm unless told to do so by an officer or the dispatcher. The University and local police departments follows specific procedures regarding bomb threat response and evacuations. Building evacuations will be conducted only if ordered by the person in charge of the incident.
- If you are told to evacuate, close your room door but do not lock it. Take lunches, purses, backpacks and personal packages (as they could be mistaken for concealed
explosives) and exit the building. Move well away from the building (minimum 500 feet is recommended) for your safety. Stay away from windows.
