Bomb Threats

BOMB THREAT PROCEDURES
A suspicious-looking box, package, object or container in or near your work area may be a bomb or explosive material. Do not handle or touch the object. Move to a safe area and call University Police immediately at Ext. 36222 or 410-543-6222. Use a telephone in a safe area. Do not operate any power switch, and do not activate the fire alarm.

 If you receive a bomb threat (via the telephone):

• Stay calm and keep your voice calm
• Pay close attention to details. Talk to the caller to obtain as much information as possible
• Take notes. Ask questions:
  • When will it explode?
  • Where is it right now?
  • What does it look like?
  • What kind of bomb is it?
  • Where did you leave it?
  • Did you place the bomb?
  • Who is the target?
  • Why did you plant it?
  • What is your address?
  • What is your name?

• Observe the caller’s:
  • Speech patterns (accent, tone)
  • Emotional state (angry, agitated, calm, etc.)
  • Background noise (traffic, people talking and accents, music and type, etc.)
  • Age and gender

• Write down other data:
  • Date and time of call
  • How threat was received (letter, note, telephone)

• Call University Police and submit your notes from the telephone call or the bomb threat letter or note to University Police
• Follow police instructions

If you are told by emergency responders to evacuate the building:

• Check your work area for unfamiliar items. Do not touch suspicious items; report them to campus authorities
• Take personal belongings when you leave
• Leave doors and windows open; do not turn light switches on or off
• Use stairs only; do not use elevators
• Move well away from the building and follow instructions from emergency responders

EXPLOSION ON CAMPUS:
In the event an explosion, take the following action:

1. Immediately take cover under a table, desk, or other object that will give protection against falling glass or debris.
    
2. After the immediate effects of the explosion and/or fire have subsided, notify the University Police Ext. 36222 or 410-543-6222.
    
3. Give your name and describe the location and nature of the emergency.
    
4. If necessary, or when directed to do so, activate the building alarm (fire alarm).
    
5. When the building evacuation alarm is sounded or when you are told by University officials to leave, walk quickly to the nearest marked exit and advise others to do the same. Assist those with disabilities in exiting the building! Remember that elevators are reserved for them. Do not use elevators in case of fire.
    
6. Once outside, move to a clear area that is at least 500 feet away from the affected building. Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews. Report to your “emergency assembly point” as soon as possible.
    
7. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.
    
8. A Command Post may be set up near the disaster site. Keep clear of the Command Post unless you have official business.
    
9. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University official.