Bomb threats or suspicious items should always be taken seriously and reported to law enforcement immediately.
Bomb threats are most commonly received via phone, but can also be made in person, via email, written notes, or other means.
Tips to follow if you receive a bomb threat:
- Remain calm.
- Call the Boston University Police immediately at 617-353-2121
- For threats made via phone, write down as much information as possible – caller ID number, the exact wording of threat, etc. – that will aid investigators. Record the call if possible.
- Follow authorities’ instructions. Law enforcement will assess the situation and provide guidance regarding facility lock-down, search and/or evacuation.
A suspicious item is any item (e.g. bag, package, vehicle, etc.) that is reasonably believed to contain explosives, an improvised explosive device (IED), or other hazardous material that requires a bomb technician and/or specialized equipment to further evaluate it.
Tips to follow with a suspicious item:
- Remain calm.
- Do not touch, tamper with, or move the package, bag, or item.
- Call Boston University Police immediately at 617-353-2121
- Follow authorities’ instructions. Law enforcement will assess the situation and provide guidance regarding shelter-in-place or evacuation.
- If you feel you are in immediate danger, calmly evacuate the area. Distance and protective cover are the best ways to reduce injury from a bomb.