Bomb Threat

What to do in the event of a bomb threat.

In the event of a bomb threat, please follow all instructions provided by TCC or law enforcement. 

If You Receive a Bomb Threat

Bomb threats are typically received via telephone. If you receive a bomb threat:

  • Take the threat seriously.
  • Stay on the line with the caller as long as possible.
  • Take notes on your conversation with the caller. Record what was said, as well as your impressions.
  • Ask someone else to call Campus Safety. Or call Campus Safety (extension 5111 from any college phone) as soon as you’ve finished talking to the caller.
  • Share your notes and impressions with Campus Safety or the police as requested.

Things to ask the caller:

  • Where is the bomb?
  • What does it look like?
  • When will it explode?
  • What type of bomb is it?
  • Why was the bomb placed on campus?
  • Did you place the bomb on campus?
  • What is your name?

Things to observe about the caller:

  • Probable gender
  • Estimated age
  • Vocal characteristics
Checklist for characteristics of caller's voice:
____Calm ____Stutter ____Slow ____Deep ____Loud
____Deep Breathing ____Cracking voice ____Crying ____Normal ____Distinct
____Accent ____Laughter ____Familiar ____Disguised ____Slurred
____Nasal ____Excited ____Raspy ____Soft ____Clearing throat
____Angry ____Lisp ____Rapid ____Ragged  
  • Background noises
  • Use of language:
    • Did what the person have to say make sense?
    • Could you easily understand what the person was saying?
    • Did the person’s thoughts seem organized?
    • Did the person keep repeating a word, phrase, or sentence?
    • Did the person use profanity?
    • Did the person seem to be reading from a script?