Bomb Threat and Suspicious Activity

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Bomb Threat and Suspicious Activity

Most bomb threats are received most commonly by phone or email and must always be treated as credible until proven otherwise. This section outlines the necessary actions to take when faced with such an emergency. Before reviewing the steps to follow during a bomb threat, we will first cover how to identify and report suspicious behavior and items.

Recognizing Suspicious Items & Behaviors

Whether you encounter a suspicious item or person, it is essential to follow these simple steps to take the necessary precautions and protect both your safety and the safety of those around you.

Call Public Safety 312.808.6363
Do not touch or move a suspicious item
Ensure that others stay away from the area
Do not use two-way radios or cellphones near a suspicious item
Do not engage someone who is behaving suspiciously
Evacuate, if directed by Public Safety

It is not always easy to recognize whether an item or person is suspicious. In these situations, it is important to trust your instincts. If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, take precautions and immediately contact Public Safety.

Is the package in a strange location?
Does the package have unusual or excessive tape, string, or wrapping?
Is there any odor, sound, or leaking substance coming from the package?
Are there misspellings or incorrect information on the label?

Has the person expressed or implied they might harm others or themselves?
Do they appear overly interested in sensitive or restricted areas?
Do they seem nervous, anxious, or evasive when approached or questioned?
Do they have a weapon?

Emergency Actions

Now that we have a better understanding of how to identify and report suspicious items and behaviors, let’s review the actions to take when encountering a bomb threat. In such a situation, it is critical to act quickly, remain calm, and gather as much information as possible.

Remain calm and do not hang up, keep the caller on the line for as long as possible
If possible, signal other staff members to call Public Safety at 312-808-6363
If the phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the display
Write down the exact wording of the threat
Record the call, if possible
Fill out the immediately
Provide the checklist to Public Safety once complete

Do not turn off the device or log out of the account
Leave the message open on the device
Take a screenshot, or copy the message and subject line
Note the date and time which it was sent to you
Send Screenshot to Public Safety publicsafety@illinoistech.edu
Call Public Safety immediately at 312.808.6363 to inform them of the threat and that you have sent the screen shot via email

Written bomb threats can be received in-person or left for to found. Regardless of how the written threat was received follow these steps.

Handle the document as little as possible
Note the date, time, and location where the document was found/received
Secure the document and do not alter the item in any way
Call Public Safety immediately to inform them of the threat at 312.808.6363
Remain with the document until Public Safety arrives

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