Bomb Threat

A calm response to a bomb threat caller may result in obtaining additional information. This is especially true if the caller wishes to avoid injuries or deaths. If told that the building is occupied or cannot be evacuated in a timely fashion, the bomber may be willing to give more specific information about the bomb's location, components, or method of initiation.

When a bomb threat is made via telephone:

• Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Do not interrupt except to ask the caller to speak louder, slower, or to repeat the message.
• Discreetly alert a colleague (wave, write a note, etc.) and have him/her alert Public Safety (646) 664-8600 to the phone call in progress.
• Record pertinent information on a Bomb Threat Checklist. (http://emilms.fema.gov/is906/assets/ocso-bomb_threat_samepage-brochure.pdf)
• Do not hang up until the caller hangs up.
• If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or time of possible detonation, ask him/her for this information.
• Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb can result in death or serious injury to many innocent people.
• Pay particular attention to background noises, such as motors running, music playing, vehicle traffic and any other noise, which may give a clue as to the location of the caller.
• Listen closely to the voice to better identify: male/female, mood (calm, excited, despondent, etc.), accents, or speech impediments.
• Report the threat to Public Safety immediately after the caller hangs up.
• Remain available for interview by Public Safety and law enforcement personnel.