

Having a plan in advance makes the response to bomb threats, unattended items, or suspicious items as orderly and controlled as possible, reducing risk and the impact of false alarms on regular activities. Have a Plan - Guidance for Facility Owners, Operators, and Managers Refer to the DHS-DOJ Bomb Threat Guidance for more information.
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Facility supervisors and law enforcement will be in the best position to determine if a real risk is posed and how to respond. There could be other threats or suspicious items.Įvery situation is unique and should be handled in the context of the facility or environment in which it occurs. Distance and protective cover are the best ways to reduce injury from a bomb.

You may encounter a suspicious item unexpectedly or while conducting a search as part of your facility's or employer’s Bomb Threat Response Plan. Facility search, lock-down, or evacuation is not necessary unless the item is determined to be suspicious. An unattended item is an item (e.g., bag, package, vehicle, etc.) of unknown origin and content where there are no obvious signs of being suspicious (see above). Suspicious Postcard and Poster, and view the video " What to Do: Suspicious or Unattended Item." In addition, potential indicators for a bomb are threats, placement, and proximity of the item to people and valuable assets.įor more information on recognizing suspicious items, reference the Unattended vs. Generally speaking, anything that is Hidden, Obviously suspicious, and not Typical ( HOT) should be deemed suspicious. Examples that could indicate a bomb include unexplainable wires or electronics, other visible bomb-like components, and unusual sounds, vapors, mists, or odors. (Find out more about the " If You See Something, Say Something®" campaign.) A suspicious item is any item (e.g., bag, package, vehicle, etc.) that is reasonably believed to contain explosives, an improvised explosive device (IED), or other hazardous material that requires a bomb technician and/or specialized equipment to further evaluate it. Together we can help keep our communities safe-if you see something that is suspicious, out of place, or doesn't look right, say something. Watch the Bomb Threat Training Video below and refer to the DHS-DOJ Bomb Threat Guidance for more information. Facility supervisors and/or law enforcement will assess the situation and provide guidance regarding facility lock-down, search, and/or evacuation. Be available for interviews with facility supervisors and/or law enforcement.For threats made in person, via email, or via written note, refer to the DHS Bomb Threat Checklist and DHS-DOJ Bomb Threat Guidance for more information.Write down as much information as possible-caller ID number, exact wording of threat, type of voice or behavior, etc.-that will aid investigators.If possible, signal or pass a note to other staff to listen and help notify authorities.DO NOT HANG UP, even if the caller does.Be polite and show interest to keep them talking. Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.Refer to the DHS Bomb Threat Checklist for guidance, if available.Call 9-1-1 or your local law enforcement if no facility supervisor is available.(See below for assistance with developing a plan for your facility or location.) Notify your facility supervisor, such as a manager, operator, or administrator, or follow your facility's standard operating procedure.Facility supervisors and law enforcement will be in the best position to determine the credibility of the threat. Every bomb threat is unique and should be handled in the context of the facility or environment in which it occurs. If You Receive a Bomb Threatīomb threats are most commonly received via phone, but are also made in person, via email, written note, or other means. The guidance and resources listed below outline in-depth procedures for either bomb threats or suspicious items and will help you prepare and react appropriately during these events. How quickly and safely you react to a bomb threat could save lives, including your own. Bomb threats or suspicious items should always be taken seriously.
