Bomb Threat

What should I do?

If you receive a bomb threat, follow these procedures:

• Remain calm.
• Call NDPD immediately.
• Follow authorities’ instructions. NDPD will assess the situation and provide guidance regarding lock-down and/or evacuation.

For threats made via phone:

• Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.
• Be polite and show interest to keep them talking.
• DO NOT HANG UP, even if the caller does.
• If possible, signal or pass a note to other staff to listen and help notify authorities.
• Write down as much information as possible—caller ID number, exact wording of threat, type of voice or behavior, etc.—that will aid investigators.
• Record the call, if possible.

For threats made in person, via email, or via written note, contact NDPD immediately.

What will the police do?

Every threat is unique and should be handled in the context of the method and environment in which it occurs. Police may respond differently based upon the nature of the threat and the information provided. 

NDPD may respond in the following ways:

• send an officer and/or a K9 officer with their VaporWake dog to investigate the threat;
• evacuate the building and/or area;
• establish a permieter around the affected area;
• conduct building- or campus-wide security sweeps;
• coordinate a response with local police agencies, such as South Bend Police Department's bomb squad.