North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What should be the first action during a bomb threat response?

1. Evacuate the building

2. Alert the bomb squad

3. Assess the situation

4. Notify the news media

The correct answer is: Assess the situation

The appropriate first action during a bomb threat response is to assess the situation. This step is critical as it allows law enforcement or security personnel to gather vital information about the threat, including the specifics of the bomb threat, the location, and any other relevant details that can influence the response strategy. Assessing the situation helps determine whether an evacuation is necessary, how to best communicate with emergency services, and what precautions need to be taken to ensure the safety of all individuals in the vicinity. By first assessing the situation, responders can make informed decisions rather than acting hastily. This can also involve collecting information from the person who made the threat, if possible, and evaluating the environment for any immediate danger. Understanding the nature and credibility of the threat is paramount, which in turn guides the subsequent actions, such as whether to evacuate or to alert bomb squads.