The majority of bomb threats are hoaxes; however, it is important to take all threats seriously. There are many ways a bomb threat can be communicated. The primary method is over the phone, but others include letters, email, in person, and social media. A bomb is also known as an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). They are designed to destroy or damage personnel or property. All threats received by MSU Texas faculty, staff, and students, must be reported to MSU Texas Police at (940) 397-4239.
| Facts About Bomb Threats | |
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| It can happen to anyone | Can happen anytime |
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| It could just be one building or all campus |
Can happen from anywhere |
- Before a Bomb Threat
- During a Bomb Threat
- After a Bomb Threat
If you See Something, Say Something: Always be vigilant for things that just don’t look right or seem right. If something or someone is out of place like a bag with no one by it, or a person watching people and taking notes, or any other odd behavior, report it to 9-1-1 or MSU Texas Police at (940) 397-4239.
Know your evacuation zone: If the decision is made to evacuate the campus, know where you need to go and how to get off-campus.
Sign up for MSUAlert: The number way to receive an emergency alert from MSU Texas is through an MSU Alert. Visit MSU Alert for more information on how to sign up and keep your information up to date.
Download MSU Safety App: Safety starts with you! Download the MSU Texas Safety app available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. The app lets you access critical information right in your hand when it matters most.
If a message is received about a device has been placed:
Report: Immediately call MSUPD at (940) 397-4239 using a landline, not a cell phone or two-way radio.
Record: Take down caller ID number/location, if possible. Fill out the Bomb Threat Report Form.
Evacuate: Leave the area and encourage others to do so as well. Do NOT activate the fire alarm. Close the area, preserve the scene, and be aware of the possibility of more devices.
Situation Awareness: Make a visual check of the area, noting anything that looks out of place.
If a device is triggered or explodes, see the explosions webpage.
It's important to know what steps you can take in the event of a bomb threat. Remember the acronyms H.O.T. and R.A.I.N to assess the risk of a suspicious or unintended item.
HOT:
Hidden- Is the item placed out of sight, or does it appear to have been purposely concealed?
Obviously suspicious- Unexplainable wires or electronics, or other bomb-like components?
Not Typical- Out of place for this location or potentially related to a threat?
RAIN:
Recognize- the indicators of a suspected explosive device.
Avoid- the area and do not touch the item.
Isolate- the suspected item.
Notify- appropriate emergency services. (DO NOT USE a cell phone or radio unless absolutely necessary to call for help.)
Stay Informed: Continue to listen to local news and emergency management personnel to stay updated about the incident.
Contact Your Family and Loved Ones: Let your family and close friends know that you're okay, so they can help spread the word. Text messages or social media are more reliable forms of communication than phone calls.
Follow Emergency Personnel: Listen to university officials and follow their guidance. Watch for hazards and damages. Stay away from the scene
Be aware of: Extensive media coverage, strong public fear, and international implications and consequences can continue for a prolonged period. Law Enforcement might need to interview you for questions about the incident. You might not be allowed in the area for a prolonged time.
