Bomb Related FAQs



We answer bomb related FAQs from the perspective of the in field security officer. Our answers are succinct and operations related.

What are the priority issues in a "bomb threat" or explosion emergency?

Preservation of Life
Protection of the Scene (Crime Scene)
Collection of Evidence

What relevant information should security obtain from a "bomb threat" caller on the phone?

Did caller state a time of explosion?
Where device was placed?
Description of Device?

You should not use your radio or cell phone because they could detonate the device.

You should be on the look out for secondary devices designed to kill first responders.

What are the three keys to self preservation?

Time, distance and shielding

List some of the ways that the explosive could have found it's way into an area.

The explosives or 'package' might be used by a criminal to threaten or cause injury or simply carried by a child and placed conspicuously causing concern from anyone in the immediate area.

Definitions:

Bomb - A hollow projectile containing explosive, incendiary, or chemical material to be discharged by concussion or a time fuse.

Explosive Device/Substance-- Sec. 2. CC – An incendiary grenade, fire bomb, molotov cocktail or other similar incendiary substance or device and a delaying mechanism or other thing intended for use in connection with such a substance or device.

Blasting Cap--A small metal tube that has been filled with small amounts of a highly explosive material. The explosive can be activated by an electric current or a flame producing device. They are used to detonate explosives. Blasting caps should be handled with care. They could react to heat or mishandling. It is important that the security officer be able to recognize electrical blasting caps as a radio signal could detonate the cap.

Safety Fuse – The safety fuse conveys the flame to a non electric blasting cap at a continuous rate. Safety fuses have a protective covering on the outside and contain a fine black powder on the inside. Safety fuses burn at about 30-40ft per second.

Detonating Cord - A round flexible cord which may appear to be a safety fuse. The inside of the cord is protected by water-proofing or using other means on the exterior of the cord. They are used to detonate charges.

List the responsibilities of the person receiving the bomb threat.

Activate your bomb threat assessment team
Render assistance
Ensure own safety and safety of others
Preserve life and protect scene
Is there a suspect, if so where is he/she
Isolate any witnesses
Notify communications center
Request a supervisor
Request Police (now normally done only upon instructions from a supervisor)

Should the security staff assist in the search for the device?

Yes, you should assist the police until dismissed.

Safe response to any other hazardous material incident involves retreating to a safe distance and notifying Communications Section, Patrol Supervisor, Hazmat responder (Fire Dept.), and Ministry of Environment.

We will continue to add to these bomb related FAQs as needed.


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