Bomb threats are normally made over the telephone to an unsuspecting person and are primarily intended to disrupt and cause chaos. Historically, threats have strictly been threats, and usually that is all the caller intends.
Making a false bomb threat is a federal offense and punishable under U.S. Code, Title 18, Part I, Chapter 40, section 844(e), with a penalty of up to ten years in prison, $250,000 fine, or both. This penalty also applies to juvenile offenders.
When a bomb threat is called in, record all the pertinent information using the bomb threat checklist.
- Do not hang up the telephone. This is extremely important in conducting an investigation and in possibly locating the caller.
- Be calm, be courteous and listen. Do not interrupt the initial message of the caller. If possible, notify your supervisor immediately by a pre-arranged signal while the caller is on the line.
- ALWAYS CALL UAB POLICE. NEVER ASSUME THE CALL IS A HOAX.
- Call 911 from any UAB telephone. If you use a cell phone, dial 934-3535.
- Do not advise anyone else of the threat except for your immediate supervisor.
- Stay calm and wait for the arrival of the Police. They will consider the facts and conduct a complete investigation.
If you find a potential device, or are advised of a potential location of a device, immediately call the UAB Police. Don't touch or move the device.
If you suspect a letter bomb, follow the same procedure for finding a possible or real device.