Bomb threats and other threats of violence are serious emergencies that required prompt attention. Although bomb threats are rare, they are most likely to occur during final exams. The following sections offer guidance for handling bomb threats.

How to Handle a Threatening Phone Call

If you receive a bomb threat over the phone, remain calm and act courteous. If feasible, notify another person to listen on another extension. Take notes on the caller's threat, tone, voice characteristics, and background noise. If the caller seems talkative, ask questions such as the following:

• When will the bomb go off? How much time remains?
• Where is the bomb located?
• What kind of bomb is it?
• How do you know about this bomb?
• What is your name?
• Do you know there are people in the building who could be hurt or killed?

IMPORTANT: If you receive a threatening phone call, remain calm and take notes. Try to find out as much as possible about the caller and threat.

The following form is an example of sounds to note while the caller is on the phone: