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Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Bomb Threat Protocol

The majority of bomb threats that are called in to targets are made with the intent of disrupting normal business. However, every bomb threat must be considered real until investigated to ensure the safety of building occupants. Normally, the call will be very brief, but if you do get a call, attempt to keep the caller on the line:

  1. Try to get as much information as possible or for quick reference, use the DPS Capitol Police District checklist (Texas Department of Public Safety).

  2. Upon hanging up, immediately call 911 and give specific details. If possible, use a confidential manner of communication to reduce the possibility of panic.

  3. Next, notify the Executive Director that a bomb threat has been received.

  4. If the Executive Director is not available, then contact the next available person in this order:
    1. General Counsel.
    2. Risk Manager.
    3. Safety Officer.

  5. The Executive Director or his/her designate, in consultation with the staff above, makes the decision whether to evacuate the building.

  6. An announcement is made over the public address system in this manner: "May I have your attention please? An emergency has been reported. Please evacuate the building by proceeding to the nearest stairwell and exit the building."

  7. Make a quick visual sweep of your area for any unusual items and proceed to the same designated gathering area identified in your Building Evacuation plan.

Emergency Response Protocols