A bomb threat is defined as a threat to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage, death, or injuries, whether or not such a device actually exists.
Bomb threats can be received by various means such as phone calls, text messages, or social media. If you see or hear about a bomb threat, contact Security at 4444 from a main campus phone or a Monroe Center office phone, or 301.846.2453 from any other phone.
If a bomb threat is received by phone:
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Remain calm, and attempt to keep the caller on the phone as long as possible.
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Use the Bomb Threat Checklist.
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After the call is complete, immediately call Security at 4444 from a main campus phone or a Monroe Center office phone, or 301.846.2453 from any other phone. If possible write a note to a colleague to alert Security while you are on the phone.
If a written bomb threat is received (letter, email, text or social media message):
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Save everything that came with the threat (e.g. envelope, container, text, etc.).
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Immediately call Security at 4444 from a main campus phone or a Monroe Center office phone, or 301.846.2453 from any other phone to report the situation.
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Minimize handling of the message to preserve fingerprints, handwriting, paper, and postal marks.
Upon notification of a bomb threat:
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Security will assess the threat and advise the building occupants if it is necessary to evacuate the building or area. If you suspect that the threat is real and imminent, evacuate the known threat area.
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Faculty and staff should not search the premises.
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If time permits, all chemicals and select agents should be secured immediately. All lab operations, processes, and equipment should be turned off or put in a “safe mode.”
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Do not attempt to re-enter the building until instructed to do so by Security.
If authorities order an evacuation:
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Gather outside at the designated College Evacuation Locations and follow the instructions of Building and Floor Coordinators.
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Do not operate any power switch or light switch.
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Do not use elevators.
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Do not congregate in the building lobby.
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Turn off cellular phones and other radio transmitting equipment in the area.
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Leave doors open.
Direct individuals with disabilities or those who are unable to evacuate to the closest Area of Rescue Assistance.
Bomb Threat Checklist
If a bomb threat is received by phone:
Listen carefully:
Check for a caller ID number. Write down all the information you receive. 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 Security at 4444 from a main campus phone or a Monroe Center office phone, or 301.846.2453 from any other phone.
Remember or write down the exact words of threat
- Ask the caller:
- Where is the bomb located? (Building, floor, room, etc.)
- What does it look like?
- What kind of bomb is it?
- What will make it explode?
- Did you place the bomb?
- Why?
- What is your name?
- Where is the caller located? (Background and level of noise)
- Estimated age:
- Is voice familiar? If so, who does it sound like?
- Other points:
- Exact Words of Threat
- Remember the exact words of the threat. Write them down, if possible.
- Information About Caller
- Where is the caller located? (Background and level of noise)
- Estimated age:
- Is voice familiar? If so, who does it sound like?
- Other points: