Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for the safe and effective response to bomb threats and suspicious packages in order to protect the safety of the University community and support timely intervention by Public Safety and emergency responders.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the Hofstra University community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, across all campus locations and facilities. It governs the response to bomb threats received via phone or other means, as well as the identification and handling of suspicious packages.

Policy

Bomb Threat/Suspicious Packages

If you receive a bomb threat keep the person talking as long as possible and secure as much information as possible including:

• Where is the bomb?

• When is it set to go off?

• What type of bomb is it?

• What does it look like?

• Why has it been planted?

• Who planted it?

• What will make it explode?

• Do not hang up the phone! Hold the line open and use another line to report the threat to Public Safety at x36789 or begin emailing PublicSafety@hofstra.edu while you remain on the phone with the caller.

If you are notified of a bomb threat in your building, follow the evacuation procedures described in the evacuation procedures web page.

If you receive a suspicious package:

Do not touch any suspicious packages. If you have any doubts, call the Department of Public Safety at x36789. Be suspicious of packages with the following:

• Marked ‘Personal’ or ‘Private’

• If it appears lopsided or misshapen

• Postmarked different than the return address

• Missing a return address

• Oil stains or odors

• Marked ‘Fragile’ or ‘Rush’

• Excessive tape or string

• Excessive postage

• Protruding wires or foil

Related Policies and References

N/A