Bomb Threats
A suspicious-looking box, package, object or container in or near your work area may be a bomb or explosive material. Do not handle or touch the object. Move to a safe area and call University Police immediately at Ext. 36222 or 410-543-6222. Use a telephone in a safe area. Do not operate any power switch, and do not activate the fire alarm.
If you receive a bomb threat (via the telephone):
- Stay calm and keep your voice calm
- Pay close attention to details. Talk to the caller to obtain as much information as possible
- Take notes. Ask questions:
- When will it explode?
- Where is it right now?
- What does it look like
- Did you place the bomb?
- Who is the target?
- Why did you plant it?
- Observe the caller’s:
- Speech patterns (accent, tone)
- Emotional state (angry, agitated, calm, etc.)
- Background noise (traffic, people talking and accents, music and type, etc.)
- Age and gender
- Write down other data:
- Date and time of call
- How threat was received (letter, note, telephone)
- Call University Police and submit your notes from the telephone call or the bomb threat letter or note to University Police
- Follow police instructions
If you are told by emergency responders to evacuate the building:
- Check your work area for unfamiliar items. Do not touch suspicious items; report them to campus authorities
- Take personal belongings when you leave
- Leave doors and windows open; do not turn light switches on or off
- Use stairs only; do not use elevators
- Move well away from the building and follow instructions from emergency responders