6 •Bomb; This is an actual warning of an explosive device in or near the facility. This call is an attempt to minimize personal injury, but they also enable the terrorist to blame others if there are casualties. Handling Bomb Scare and Threats
FRSC INSIGHT MARCH, 2013
EVALUATION: Each and every threat must be carefully evaluated for its authenticity - No call or threat should be disregarded. In the evaluation process, management should try to determine from the threat information received if this threat is a hoax or if there may be an explosive device present. Threat information may be reviewed as general or specific. The general threat may only state, “a bomb is going to go off in fifteen minutes.” This type of threat may be only a hoax designed to disrupt business activities. The more specific information given during the threat increases the likelihood an explosive device may be present in the described location. The greater percentage of bomb threats are made via telephone, however, some are received by mail. A written threat should receive the same priority as one received over the telephone.
THE THREAT: A frequent occurrence throughout the nation is the telephone bomb threat. The bomb threat is a fearful problem for the unprepared individual to cope with. If a receptionist is suddenly confronted with a telephone call such as: “A bomb is going to explode in your building in fortyfive minutes,” what can be done? Personnel most likely to answer incoming calls should make preparations for this call well in advance. Instruct all personnel to follow established procedures in the event a bomb threat call is received. The individual receiving a bomb threat should stay as calm as pos- EVACUATION: In the past, upon receipt of sible and attempt to secure as much infor- a bomb threat, it has been common pracmation as possible from the caller. tice to evacuate the entire facility, regardless of the size. Handling Bomb Threats