Bomb threat

All threats must be taken seriously and treated as though an explosive device is present on campus.  

Immediate action 

• Call 911 (RCMP) immediately. 
• Then contact UBC Campus Security at 604-822-2222. 
• If an explosion occurs, evacuate the building calmly and quickly. 

If you receive a bomb threat 

Bomb threats can be delivered by phone, email, or letter. If you receive a phone call threat: 

Stay calm and gather as much information as possible

• Do not hang up. Keep the caller on the line. 
• Be polite and cooperative—do not provoke the caller. 

Record the following

• Time the call was received. 
• Phone number or line the call came through. 
• Exact words of the caller (especially details about the bomb or timing). 
• Background noises (e.g., traffic, music, machinery, voices). 

Try to ask

• Where is the bomb? 
• When will it explode? 
• What does it look like? 
• What kind of bomb is it? 
• Why was it placed? 

Pay attention to the caller’s

• Voice (adult/child, male/female, tone, accent). 
• Emotional state (calm, agitated, angry, crying). 
• Any unique speech patterns or familiar sounds. 

After the call 

• Call 911 and then Campus Security (604-822-2222) right away. 
• If possible, have a colleague make the calls while you stay on the line with the caller. 
• Look around your immediate area—if you notice any unusual or suspicious items: 
• Do not touch or move anything. 
• Follow all instructions from emergency personnel. 
• If evacuation is required, remain calm and exit the building as directed.  

Any explosion must be reported immediately to the Fire Department via 911.