Threats

Threats can include but are not limited to: threatening calls, emails, online threats or bomb threats.  

Responding to a telephone threat

  • If it is a bomb threat, try to get as much information as possible, including: 
    • The location of the bomb 
    • The type of bomb 
    • When it will explode
  • Note any information about the speaker, including: 
    • The deepness of the speaker’s voice 
    • Distinctive characteristics of the speaker’s voice 
    • Background noises (traffic, bell ringing, etc.) 
  • Write down what was said, in detail, as soon as possible. 
  • Record telephone call display information if shown. 
  • Call Campus Safety at 416-978-2222 or call 911 to report the threat.  
  • A decision to evacuate the area or building will be made by Campus Safety in consultation with Toronto Police Service

Responding to an online threat

  • Call Campus Safety at 416-978-2222 or call 911 to report the threat. 
  • Do not erase any threatening messages received by email or online. 
  • Screen-capture threatening messages found on any media platform.  
  • Do not forward the message to anyone, as the original email properties are vital in identifying the sender.

Important Contacts

Emergency: 911

Campus Safety (Emergency)
St. George/UTSC: 416-978-2222
UTM: 905-569-4333

Campus Safety (Non-Emergency)
St. George: 416-978-2323
UTSC: 416-287-7398
UTM: 905-828-5200

Consider

  • Do not try to guess whether the threat is real or a hoax. Threats rarely happen in isolation and security needs to know of even the vaguest of threats to people or property.  
  • Always report a threat to Campus Safety at 416-978-2222.  

Other Incident Response Guides

Active Attacker
Medical Emergencies
Suspicious Packages
Fire
Cyber Incidents
Gas Leak
Power Outages
Civil Disturbances
Extreme Weather