Use the bomb threat call checklist or Bomb Form (see below) to record details of the threat. Call Public Safety at x3636. Public safety will respond and evaluate the threat. In the event an evacuation is necessary, the Metropolitan Police Bomb Squad and public safety will coordinate an orderly and safe evacuation.

Bomb/Other Call Checklist

Questions to Ask:
1. When will it go off?
2. Where is it located?
3. What type of bomb is it?
4. What type of explosive is it?
5. Why are you doing this?
6. Who are you?

Exact language of the threat:

Date _________________

Time of call _____________________________________
Call received ____________________________________
Voice on phone (circle as applicable): Male Female Adult Child
Estimated age __________________

Race __________________________________________

Speech (circle as applicable):

Slow Foul Impeded
Rapid Broken Soft/high pitched
Normal Sincere Deep
Excited Accented Calm
Loud Intoxicated Angry

Background Noises (circle as applicable):

Music Typing Factory
Talking Machines Trains
Laughing Traffic Quiet

Additional Observations:

Mail Bombs

Public awareness of mail bombs has increased at all levels, including university mailrooms and offices.

To apply proper safety procedures, it is important to know the type of mail normally received and be aware of the following:

• Mail bombs come in letters, books, and packages of various sizes, shapes, and colors.
• Letter texture may feel ridged, look uneven or lopsided, or feel bulkier than normal.
• Excessive amounts of postage may be present—often far more than needed.
• Sender is unknown or there is no return address.
• Handwritten notes appear such as “rush” “personal” or “private”.
• Addressee normally does not receive mail at the office.
• Cut or pasted homemade labels are used for lettering.
• The letter or package may emit an odor or appear to have been disassembled and re-glued.
• Distorted or foreign writing is present.
• Resistance or even pressure is felt when trying to remove contents from package.
• Several combinations of tape are used to secure the package.
• Contents of parcel may slosh or sound like liquid; some packages may emit a buzzing sound.

If a suspicious piece of mail is received and its contents cannot be verified, the following protocol applies:

• Stop. Do not open the item. Do not panic.
• Isolate the letter, parcel, or package. Note: All people should be asked to leave the area quickly. The package should be observed from a safe distance until the bomb squad arrives.
• Call the department of public safety (x3636).
• Have public safety contact the bomb squad.
• Never move or place the item in water, a drawer, or a cabinet.