This quick reference checklist has been adapted from the Department of Homeland Security form and is designed to help employees and decision makers of commercial facilities, schools, etc. respond to a bomb threat in an orderly and controlled manner with the first responders and other stakeholders. Most bomb threats are received by phone. Bomb threats are serious until proven otherwise. Act quickly, but remain calm and obtain information with the checklist on the reverse of this card.
If a bomb threat is received by phone:
- Remain calm. 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, write a note to a colleague to call the authorities or, as soon as the caller hangs up, immediately notify them yourself.
- 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 get exact words.
- Immediately upon termination of call, DO NOT HANG UP, but from a different phone, contact authorities immediately with information and await instructions.
If a bomb threat is received by handwritten note:
- Call 9, 911 (or 5-3911 from BYUH)
- Handle note as minimally as possible.
If a bomb threat is received by e-mail:
- Call 9, 911 (or 5-3911 from BYUH)
- Do not delete the message.
Signs of a suspicious package:
- No return address
- Poorly handwritten
- Excessive postage
- Misspelled words
- Stains
- Incorrect titles
- Strange odor
- Foreign postage
- Strange sounds
- Restrictive notes
- Unexpected delivery
* Refer to your local bomb threat emergency response plan for evacuation criteria
DO NOT:
- Use two-way radios or cellular phone. Radio signals have the potential to detonate a bomb.
- Touch or move a suspicious package.