If you receive a written bomb threat:

• Remain calm.
• Call 9-1-1.
• Secure the document and handle it as little as possible.

If you receive a bomb threat via telephone:

• Remain calm.
• Keep the caller on the phone for as long as possible.
• Do not hang up, even if the caller does.
• Listen carefully. Be polite and show interest.
• If possible, pass a note or signal to someone nearby to help notify 9-1-1.
• If your phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the window display.
• Ask the caller the following questions:
  • Where is the bomb located? (building, floor, room, etc.)
  • When will it go off?
  • 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?
  • Write down the exact words of the threat.
• Note any information about the caller.
  • Where is the caller located? (background/level of noise)
  • Estimated age.
  • Is voice familiar? Is so, who does it sound like?
  • Gender
  • Background Sounds
  • Threat Language (well-spoken, incoherent, recorded message, etc.)
• Upon termination of call, DO NOT HANG UP. From a different phone, call 9-1-1 immediately with information and await instructions.

Source:

UF Police Department (UFPD)

Resources:

UFPD – Bomb Threat Call Procedure/Checklist
Department of Homeland Security –  Bomb Threat Guidance

Training:

Bomb Threat Guidelines for BECs

Version Date: February 2024