Bomb Threats/Suspicious Packages
Definition: Threat that an explosive device has been placed in, around, or near a facility, or the detection of a suspicious package that could contain an explosive device. Bomb checklists should be next to each phone.
Alert Signal: Announcement--"Evacuation! to (location).
Teacher Response: Visual scan and Evacuate procedures:
Visually scan and remain in place procedures:
Person receiving threat BY TELEPHONE:
Person receiving WRITTEN threat:
Search & Rescue Team
Definition: Threat that an explosive device has been placed in, around, or near a facility, or the detection of a suspicious package that could contain an explosive device. Bomb checklists should be next to each phone.
Alert Signal: Announcement--"Evacuation! to (location).
Teacher Response: Visual scan and Evacuate procedures:
- Visually scan area of responsibility for any packages or items that could contain an explosive device (objects that they do not recognize as normally being present).
- If no such items are noted, use masking or duct tape to make a slash across the entrance door to the area (/) to indicate to public safety officials you have swept the area and no suspicious items were noticed.
- If any suspicious items are noted, they should not be disturbed. Notify the administrator upon evacuation from the area.
- Follow the Evacuation protocol to an assembly area at least 1000 ft. from building. Have students bring their book bags and other hand carry articles with them.
- Prop or leave doors open as you go through them on your way out to your evacuation location.
- Do not turn lights off if they are on and do not turn lights on if they are off.
- Account for students. Hold up Green Card if students are all present. Hold up Red Card with names of missing students or extra students.
- Refrain from using cellular or digital telephones or portable radios during these situations unless a life-threatening emergency exists. In some instances, radio frequency energy can trigger an explosive device to detonate. Explain to students that any electronic communication devices that are observed in use will be seized. Explain to the students that the use of such devices can pose a safety hazard.
Visually scan and remain in place procedures:
- Scan your area of responsibility for any packages or items that could contain an explosive device (objects they do not recognize as normally being present or other suspicious items).
- If no such items are noted use tape to make a slash (/) across the entrance door to the area to indicate to public safety officials that you have swept the area and no suspicious items were noted.
- Take roll to account for all persons in your area of responsibility in case Evacuation is ordered at a later time.
- If any suspicious items are noted, they should not be disturbed. Secure the area but do not guard it.
- Direct all people in the area to follow you to the administrator's office. Proceed with evacuees to the administrator's office area and inform the administrator of his/her observations. Follow the administrator's instructions.
Person receiving threat BY TELEPHONE:
- Listen. Do not interrupt caller.
- Keep the caller on the line with statements such as, "I am sorry, I did not understand you. What did you say?" Alert someone else by prearranged signal to notify the telephone company to trace the call while the caller is on the line.
- Notify site administrator immediately after completing the call.
- Complete the Bomb Threat checklist.
- Call 911.
Person receiving WRITTEN threat:
- Note the manner in which the threat was delivered, where it was found and who found it.
- Limit handling of item by immediately placing it in envelope so that fingerprints may be detected. Written threats should be turned over to law enforcement.
- Caution students against picking up or touching any strange objects or packages.
- Notify principal or administrator. • Call 911.
Search & Rescue Team
- Use a systematic, rapid and thorough approach to search the building and surrounding areas. Check classrooms, work areas, foyers, offices, bathrooms, stairwells, unlocked closets, shrubbery, trashcans, computer rooms, gas valves, electric panels, and telephone panels. If suspicious item is found, report it to administrator/operations officer.