Bomb Threat

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A bomb threat or bomb scare is defined as a verbal or written claim to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage, injuries or death. Threats are usually delivered by phone or other means of telecommunication.

The majority of these threats are pranks, and intended to cause a disruption or are a practical joke. They are rarely a warning of a real device. Actual bombings for malicious intent, destruction of property, terrorism or murder are often perpetrated without warning.

But since the intent of the caller can not be known, all bomb threats should be taken seriously, and proper actions taken to ensure no loss of life.

STANDARD PROCEDURE FOR A TELEPHONE BOMB THREAT

1.When the call is made, signal a co-worker to the situation and locate the Bomb Threat Check List.
2. Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask them to repeat the message. If possible record the conversation.
3. If the caller does not indicate a location or time of detonation, ask for this information.
4. Listen for distinguishing background noises : traffic, music, voices, aircraft, church bells ringing, etc.
5. Listen for distinguishing voice characteristics.
6. Does the caller indicate knowledge of the layout of the business, hospital or campus.
7. Once the caller hangs up call 911, notify your faculties security, complete the Bomb Threat Check List and supply first responders with all information you obtained.

During the interval between a bomb threat and the arrival of officers selected personnel should search obvious locations : outside perimeter of the building, waiting rooms, rest rooms, trash containers and storage rooms.

While evacuation is the safest decision in a bomb threat situation, it may be difficult in large facilities such as a hospital or nursing home.

SEARCH PROCEDURES IN A HOSPITAL OR NURSING HOME

1. Stay calm.
2. Do not alert patients, visitors or any other personnel that a bomb threat has been received.
3. Nurses should search their assigned rooms, check closets, bathrooms, trash containers and look behind all doors.
4. Take note of any new visitors or suspicious persons in the patient care area.

IF A SUSPICIOUS ITEM IS LOCATED

1. Do not touch or disturb the item no matter how harmless it may appear. It could be armed with an anti-disturbance mechanism.
2. Clear the immediate area.
3. Notify the Bomb Incident Command Center.
4. If in a hospital or nursing home remove all patients and personnel from immediate danger.

If an evacuation is needed personnel involved will be instructed on how to precede. If only a single area is being evacuated then key persons will be notified by phone. For a general evacuation the Public Address System will give instructions.

In the cases where a suspect has given a detonation time, the fire alarm system will activate immediately prior to the set time. This action is taken for fire and damage containment in the case of an actual bomb explosion.

The key to safety for yourself and others in a bomb threat situation is calm rational thinking. While a bomb threat is a terrifying scenario, panic can only lead to greater danger.