June 2004
Bomb Threat Management
The reality is, bomb threats are an effective means of disrupting business. The problems are intensified when the incident involves an actual explosive or incendiary device. Although there is no foolproof means of securing an area against a bomb threat, a comprehensive bomb threat management policy, planned and executed in the correct way, will enable a business to deal with an incident effectively.
Bombs and the threat of their use have become the primary weapon of terrorists. They also may be used as a means of retaliation by employees with real or fancied grievances, as well as by criminal extortionists. Although there are a variety of ways in which a bomb threat can be delivered, the majority of bomb threats are called into the target. There are two primary explanations for someone reporting a bomb threat. One, the caller has knowledge or believes that an explosive or incendiary device has been, or will be, placed and wants to minimize personal injury or property damage. Two, the caller wishes to create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic, resulting in a disruption of the normal activities at the facility where the device is reportedly located.
When discussing bomb threat management, one issue that cannot be overemphasized is the value of being prepared. In order to handle situations such as this, a comprehensive plan must be in place and all employees involved must know their role in the event a bomb threat is called into your business.
To develop an effective plan for managing bomb threats:
1. Establish a simple procedure for the person receiving the bomb threat to catalog the call; develop a checklist to capture important details
2. Designate a chain of command
3. Establish a command center
4. Decide what primary and alternate communications will be used
5. Clearly establish how and by whom a bomb threat will be evaluated
6. Decide what procedures will be followed when a bomb threat is received or the device is discovered
7. Determine to what extent the available bomb squad will assist in the process
8. Provide an evacuation plan with enough flexibility to avoid the suspected danger area
9. Designate search teams
10. Designate areas to be searched
11. Establish techniques to be utilized during the search
12. Have a contingency plan should a bomb go off
13. Review your physical security plan in conjunction with the development of your bomb incident plan
Lastly, remember to stay calm. More often than not, the caller wants to see your business reach a state of panic. If everyone involved in the bomb threat management plan remain as calm as possible, not only will it be more likely that everyone else carries that same composure, but it will also be easier to ensure safety as quickly as possible.
Investigations
U.S. Security Care provides investigative opeations for corporations and individuals, both domestically and internationally, tailored to meet your company's objectives. Our highly trained, experienced investigators perform thorough and timely investigations in a discreet and cost-effective manner.
Executive Protection
Recently, economic situations, among other factors, have not only created emerging threats, but also new sources of those threats. This has forced many executives to maintain an in-house protection team or contract with an outside protection service. U.S. Security Care has a network of agents and resources domestically and internationally to supplement in-house protection or provide complete coverage. Our agents provide logistical and tactical support, including secure transportation procedures, threat assessments, surveillance detection and counter-surveillance.
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