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Most bomb threats
are made over the phone. The overwhelming majority are hoaxes, often the
work of malicious pranksters, although terrorists also make hoax calls. Sponsored
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Any
such hoax is a crime and, no matter how ridiculous or unconvincing, should
be reported to the police.
Calls
from terrorists fall into two kinds:
-
bomb
threats when none has actually been planted. These hoaxes may not be
merely malicious but designed to disrupt, to test reactions or to
divert attention;
-
bomb
threats warning of a genuine device. These may be attempts to avoid
casualties, but they also enable the terrorist to blame others if
there are casualties.
Even
genuine threats are frequently inaccurate with regard to where and when a
bomb might explode, and staff receiving a bomb threat may not always be
those trained and prepared for it. But although they may be unable to
assess a threat's accuracy or origin, their impressions of the caller
could be important.
Receiving
such a threat may be the closest that many people ever come to acts of
terrorism, so be prepared for affected staff to be temporarily in a state
of shock. Affected individuals may need counselling or other support.
What
you Can Do
-
Ensure
that all staff who could conceivably receive a bomb threat are trained
in handling procedures - or at least have ready access to
instructions. This applies particularly to courts, banks, hotels,
hospitals, news agencies, public transport organisations, voluntary
organisations and those offering any sort of emergency service.
Switchboard operators should be familiar with procedures and rehearse
them regularly.
-
Draw
up, ideally with advice from your local police CTSA, a clear and
accessible list of actions to take on receipt of a call (see below),
or use the bomb threat checklist elsewhere on this website. Your list
should include the following instructions.
-
Stay
calm and listen.
-
Obtain
as much information as possible - try to get the caller to be precise
about the location and timing of the alleged bomb and try to establish
whom they represent. If possible, keep the caller talking.
-
Ensure
that any recording facility is switched on.
-
When
the caller rings off, dial 1471 (if that facility operates and you
have no automatic number display) to see if you can get their number.
-
Immediately
tell the designated Security Co-ordinator. It is their responsibility
to decide on the best course of action and who should notify the
police. If you cannot get hold of anyone, and even if you think the
call is a hoax, inform the police directly. Give them your impressions
of the caller as well as an exact account of what was said.
-
If
you have not been able to record the call, make notes for the security
staff or police. Do not leave your post - unless ordered to evacuate -
until the police or security arrive.
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