A bomb threat is generally defined as a verbal or written threat to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage or injuries, whether or not such a device actually exists.
Typically delivered by phone. If there is one point that cannot be overemphasized, it is the value of being prepared. Do not allow a bomb threat incident to catch you by surprise. By developing a bomb incident and bomb threat response plan and considering possible bomb incidents in your physical security plan, you can reduce the potential for personal injury and property damage. After receiving a bomb threat, the decision on whether or not to evacuate an area or building, depends on the perceived reliability of the threat, and may be made by local controlling authorities or those in charge of the targeted facility based on advice from law enforcement experts.
Bomb & Physical Security Planning & Training
Bombing and the threat of being bombed are harsh realities in today’s world. The public is becoming more aware of those incidents of violence that are perpetrated by vicious, nefarious segments of our society through the illegal use of explosives. Law enforcement agencies are charged with providing protection for life and property, but law enforcement alone cannot be held responsible. Every citizen must do his or her part to ensure a safe environment.
This pamphlet is designed to help both the public and private sectors prepare for the potential threat of explosives-related violence. While the ideas set forth herein are applicable in most cases, they are intended only as a guide.
If there is one point that cannot be overemphasized, it is the value of being prepared. Do not allow a bomb incident to catch you by surprise. By developing a bomb incident plan and considering possible bomb incidents in your physical security plan, you can reduce the potential for personal injury and property damage.
Bomb Construction & Types
Bombs can be constructed to look like almost anything and can be placed or delivered in any number of ways. The probability of finding a bomb that looks like the stereotypical bomb is almost nonexistent. The only common denominator that exists among bombs is that they are designed or intended to explode.
Bomb Threat Devices
Most bombs are homemade and are limited in their design only by the imagination of, and resources available to, the bomber. Remember, when searching for a bomb, suspect anything that looks unusual. Let the trained bomb technician determine what is or is not a bomb.
Bomb Threat Response
Bomb threats are delivered in a variety of ways. The majority of threats are called in to the target. Occasionally these calls are through a third party. Sometimes a threat is communicated in writing or by a recording.
Two logical explanations for reporting a bomb threat are:
1. The caller has definite knowledge or believes that an explosive or incendiary bomb has been or will be placed and he/she wants to minimize personal injury or property damage. The caller may be the person who placed the device or someone who has become aware of such information.
2. The caller wants to create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic which will, in turn, result in a disruption of the normal activities at the facility where the device is purportedly placed.
Whatever the reason for the report, there will certainly be a reaction to it. Through proper planning, the wide variety of potentially uncontrollable reactions can be greatly reduced.
