Code White

Bomb Threat / Suspicious Item

Most bomb threats are received by phone. Bomb threats are serious until proven otherwise. Act quickly, but remain calm and obtain information with the checklist below.

If a bomb threat is received by phone

  • Remain calm. Keep the caller on the line for as long as possible. DO NOT HANG UP, even if the caller does

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  • Listen carefully. Be polite and show interest

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  • Try to keep the caller talking to learn more information

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  • If possible, write a note to a colleague to call the MNRH Public Safety (7-1708/#2222)

    Or, as soon as the caller hangs up, immediately notify them yourself

  • If your phone has a display, copy the number and/or letters on the window display

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  • Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist immediately.

    Write down as much detail as you can remember. Try to get exact words.

  • Immediately upon termination of the call, DO NOT HANG UP, but from a different phone, contact MWHC Public Safety immediately with information

    Await instructions

If a bomb threat is received by handwritten note:

  • Call 7-1708 or #2222 if in-house, otherwise 911

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  • Handle note as minimally as possible

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If a bomb threat is received by email:

  • Call 7-1708 if in-house, otherwise 911

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  • Do not delete the message

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If a bomb threat is received by handwritten note:

  • No return address

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  • Excessive postage

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  • Stains

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  • Strange odor

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  • Strange sounds

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  • Unexpected delivery

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  • Poorly handwritten

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  • Misspelled words

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  • Incorrect titles

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  • Foreign postage

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  • Restrictive notes

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DO NOT:

  • Use two-way radios or celluar phone; radio signals have the potential to detonate a bomb

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  • Evacuate the building until police/MWHC Public Safety arrive and evaluate the threat

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  • Activate the fire alarm

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Contact MedStar Washington Hospital Center Public Safety (7-1708)

911 (If off campus)