A bomb threat is a threat to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage, death, or injuries, whether or not the device actually exists. Treat all bomb threats seriously. After receiving a bomb threat, immediately notify Public Safety.
- Do a quick visual inspection of your area. Don't touch or move suspicious objects.
- Don't use radios or cell phones, they may trigger an explosive device.
- Evacuate the area and seek protective cover from the bomb and potential debris.
Phoned Threat
- Remain calm.
- DO NOT HANG UP or TRANSFER THE CALL.
- If possible, signal other staff members to listen.
- If the phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the window display.
- Write down the exact wording of the threat.
- Keep the caller on the line for as long as possible.
- Record the conversation, if possible.
- Fill out the Bomb Threat Checklist immediately.
- Notify USI Public Safety at 812-492-7777 or ext. 7777.
- Take no further action until you are advised to do so by Public Safety officer or law enforcement.
Verbal Threat
- If the perpetrator leaves, note which direction they went.
- Notify Public Safety:
- Write down the threat exactly as it was communicated.
- Note the description of the person who made the threat:
- Name (if known)
- Physical appearance: race, gender, height/weight, hair and eye color, distinguishing features
- Type/color of clothing
- Voice (loud, deep, accent, familiarity, disguised, angry)
- Threatening language (irrational, incoherent, taped, profane, etc.)
- Take no further action until you are advised to do so by Public Safety officers or law enforcement.
Written Threat
- Handle the document as little as possible.
- Notify Public Safety :
- Rewrite the threat exactly as is on another sheet of paper. Include the following:
- Date/time/location document was found.
- Any situations or conditions surrounding the discovery/delivery.
- Full names of any person who saw the threat.
- Secure the original threat; DO NOT alter the item in any way.
- If small/removable, place in a bag or envelope.
- If large/stationary, secure the location.
E-mailed Threat
- Leave the message open on the computer.
- Notify Public Safety.
- Print, photograph, or copy the message and subject line; note the date and time.
