Bomb Threat/Suspicious Package

BOMB THREAT

If a threat is received, either by telephone, email, or other means, always contact UMPD immediately.

If you receive a bomb threat via phone:

• Remain calm and do not hang up the phone.
• Try to obtain as much information as possible.
• ​In collaboration with UMass Police, the questions below can be used to collect information when talking with the caller.
  • Note information such as the time of call and caller phone number
  • Calmly ask the caller:
    • Where is the bomb located?
    • When will the bomb explode?
    • What does the bomb look like?
    • Who is your target?
    • Did you place the bomb?
    • What is your name and where are you located?
• Notify UMPD (413-545-3111) or 911 and follow their instruction.
  • Be prepared to give emergency personnel the Bomb Threat Call Checklist.

​​If you receive a bomb threat via email:

• Do not delete, reply to, or forward the email.
• Notify UMPD (413-545-3111) or 911 and follow their instruction.
  • Do not activate building fire alarm unless directed to by emergency personnel.
  • Do not notify others (except supervisor or instructor) unless directed by emergency personnel.

SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE

A suspicious object may come in the form of a package or envelope. Some common characteristics include:

• Package or envelope with suspicious leaks, stains, or powdered substances
• Package is rigid, bulky, or has excessive tape/string
• Poor handwriting, misspellings, improperly addressed
• Excessive postage, no postage, or no/strange return address
• Ticking, vibration, abnormal sounds, strange odors
• Generic addressee and restrictive markings
• Unexpected and from someone unfamiliar
• Irregular placement of object
• More information and visuals are available from the US Postal Service.

If you find a suspicious package or item:

• Do not touch, move, or alter the object
  • If you already handled the item, gently put it down in a secluded area and move safely away.
• Call UMPD (413-545-3111) or 911 and follow their instruction.
  • Provide your name, location, object locations, and details.
  • Do not activate building fire alarm unless directed to by emergency personnel.
  • Do not notify others (except supervisor or instructor) unless directed by emergency personnel.
• Leave the package where it is and clear the immediate area until the police arrive.