Bombs & Hazardous Devices

Explosive devices can be contained in almost anything. Bombs have been disguised in many everyday type items. The devices can be detonated by many methods including the slightest touch, static electricity form you body, radio waves from a two-way radio and motion. While this sounds scary, its not meant to be. We want you to take the advice here seriously.

DO NOT TOUCH or DISTURB a suspected Explosive Device!

The Tampa Police Department has specially trained men and women to deal with explosive devices and other hazardous materials. In the case of explosive devices and other hazardous materials, what you don't know not only can hurt you... it can kill you.

Some people have replica explosive devices such as hand grenades. If you have a doubt, and you should, treat it like the real thing.

Notify law enforcement immediately!

Contact your local law enforcement agency immediately. NEVER take what you think may be or know to be a hazardous device to any police or fire station. There have been incidents of people bringing hand grenades into police stations for disposal. This might seem like the right thing to do, but it is the exact wrong thing to do. Remember, never touch or disturb a suspected explosive device.

The RAIN Model

Experts use the RAIN model and you can abide by it too. RAIN is the acronym for:

• Recognize - Distinguish an item as suspicious. Treat it as a device if you're not sure
• Avoid - Get away from the area and ensure others do as well
• Isolate - Keep others from re-entering the danger area
• Notify - Notify authorities immediately

Bomb Threats

What do I say to the caller?

Try to keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask them to repeat the message and be sure to record every word spoken. If the caller doesn't state the location of the device or the possible detonation time, you should ask for the information. Listen for background noises that may help identify where the caller may be. Write down as much information as you can during and after the call (use the Bomb Threat Checklist). Listen to the caller's voice quality for any regional accent, speech impediment or other distinguishing characteristics.

What do I do after receiving a bomb threat?

Call 9-1-1 immediately! Patrol officers will be dispatched to your location to advise and direct you regarding procedures that should be initiated. Bomb threats represent a serious and potentially deadly situation. The destructive potential for even a small device must be seriously considered. Anyone receiving a bomb threat telephonically should immediately evacuate the location and notify police from a neighboring location. Only conventional telephones should be used because cellular telephone transmissions have the potential to detonate a bomb.

Suspicious Packages (mail)

What should I do if I receive a suspicious package in the mail?

If you receive a suspicious package handle it with care. Do not shake or bump it. Isolate the package and look for indicators such as:

• No return address
• Excessive postage
• Restrictive markings (i.e. personal)
• protruding wires
• excessive tape or string
• Wrong title or name
• Oily stains, discoloration or crystallization on the wrapping

Do not try to open, smell or taste the package, treat as suspect and call 9-1-1.

If the package is open and/or a threat is identified

For a Bomb

For Radiological

For Biological

Download the FBI Advisory (288KB) about suspicious letters & packages