What to Do

Suspicious Item or Bomb Threat

A suspicious item is defined as any item potentially containing explosives, an IED, or other hazardous material that requires a bomb technician’s diagnostic skills and specialized equipment for further evaluation.

Suspicious indicators are based upon the prevailing and/or communicated threat, placement and proximity of the item to people and valuable assets, and more tangible aspects such as unexplainable wires or electronics, other visible bomb-like components, unusual sounds, vapors, mists, or odors.

Response Checklist

If you see a suspicious item

If you receive a written threat

If you receive a digital threat

If you are instructed to evacuate because of a suspicious item

If you receive a bomb threat by phone

Write down the exact wording of the threat with as much detail as possible.
Write down the caller's phone number, if displayed.
Record the call, if possible, and have recording available for responders.
Immediately report the threat to Safety and Security.