Bomb threats

If you observe a suspicious object or potential bomb on campus, DO NOT HANDLE IT!

  1. Evacuate the area and keep a safe distance from the potential hazard.
  2. Notify Campus Police immediately (campus phones ext. 5100 or 911; other phones 413.662.5100 or 911).
  3. Be specific when reporting the nature, description, and location of the suspicious object or potential bomb.
  4. Never enter/re-enter a space where a suspicious object or potential bomb is located until authorities say it is safe to do so.

If you receive a bomb-threat call:

  1. Remain calm and listen carefully!
  2. Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.
  3. Have someone call Campus Police immediately (campus phones ext. 5100 or 911; other phones 413.662.5100 or 911).
  4. Note time of call, gender, approximate age of the caller, background noise, emotional state of the caller, speech patterns, and if possible, a caller ID number on the phone.
  5. Ask the following:
  • When is the bomb going to go off?
  • Where is it right now? 
  • What does it look like?
  • What kind of bomb is it? 
  • What will cause it to explode? 
  • Who placed the bomb? 
  • Why did they place the bomb there? 
  • What is your name? 
  • What is a telephone number where I can reach you?