Bomb threats are a risk to any public or private organization. There are three likely explanations for receiving a bomb threat. First, the caller has definite knowledge or believes that an explosive or incendiary device has been or will be placed in an area and wants to minimize personal injury or property damage. The caller may be the person who placed the device or someone else who has become aware of such information.
Second, the caller wants to create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic, which will possibly result in disruption of the normal activities at the target area of the organization. When a threat has been received, there will be a reaction to it. If the call is directed to a target area where a vacuum in leadership exists or where there has been no organized advance planning to handle such a threat, the call may well result in panic.
Finally, the caller wants to bring about or amplify a lack of confidence in existing leadership or programs. By injecting panic into normal operational situation through fear of the known or unknown, the caller may achieve his or her ultimate goals; i.e. an increased potential for personal injury, property damage, evacuation or shutdown which results in disruptions or economic loss to the organization.
Organization and planning efforts must be conducted in advance to handle bomb threats, confusion and panic. If we are prepared, bomb threats and finding suspicious parcels can be resolved with a minimum of exposure to personal injury and property damage.
Person receiving a bomb threat by phone:
- Try to alert someone while being on the phone with the threat maker.
- Keep the caller on the telephone as long as possible.
- Record all the details in the Bomb Threat Checklist (Appendix in printed edition of Emergency Response Plan).
- Listen carefully to all information provided and make note of any voice characteristics (Checklist; Appendix).
- A bomb threat checklist has been devised to assist staff when receiving a bomb threat. The Checklist must be kept where you can easily reach it when you are on the telephone. Immediately after the call is terminated contact 9-911.
- Notify Safety and Security (334-6042, speed dial 222 from your office/classroom phone or via the YukonU mobile app) and your instructor/direct supervisor and no one else.
- If instructed to evacuate, follow the Emergency Evacuation guidelines.
***Employees asked to assist in the bomb search have the "right to refuse" under the Yukon OH&S Act, Section 15. ***
Employees who agree to assist in a bomb search must follow these instructions, unless other instructions are given at the time:
- Begin on the floor (carpet) and search the room’s perimeter clockwise up to waist level.
- Continue in a clockwise direction to above your head until the entire area has been searched.
- Search with your eyes only.
- Notify Safety and Security (334-6042, speed dial 222 from your office/classroom phone or via the YukonU mobile app) and your instructor/direct supervisor if you discover anything suspicious or out of the ordinary.
- Keep all personal briefcases, knapsacks, parcels and purses with you.
If an explosion occurs in the vicinity of your work station:
- Take immediate shelter. Tables, desks, or other objects will offer protection against flying glass or debris. Protect your face and head with your arms.
- Remain under cover until the effects of the explosion have subsided.
- When safe to do so activate the nearest fire alarm pull station.
- Notify the Fire Department at 911.
- Check to ensure the exit is free of obstruction and evacuate the building to your muster point.