In the past two months, 57 bomb threats have riddled the University of Pittsburgh campus. The bomb threats serve as a reminder for the Syracuse University community to exercise caution on campus.

When something of such an alarming nature happens at another university, it’s natural for students to ask, ‘What would it be like if this happened here?’

SU’s emergency protocols and procedures are posted online for the public. Now would serve as a good time for students to read over the policies and bring any questions or concerns to the appropriate officials.

Bomb threats are extremely serious. When they happen 57 times at a university, it poses a significant problem and disruption. The Pitt community is trying to deal with the problem however it can. Extra tight security measures were implemented in all campus buildings, teachers are either canceling classes or holding them outside and some first-year students are moving from dorms to off-campus houses with upperclassmen.

It’s almost impossible to imagine something of that nature occurring at SU. But there’s just as big of a chance the series of bomb threats could happen on this campus.

SU procedures advise that students know the nearest exit in a room and at least two exits out of any building. In case of an evacuation, students must remain calm, pack their personal belongings and leave the building quickly. Students should also alert others on their way out.

The university emergency reference guide website outlines actions students should take in case of specific emergencies, including bomb threats, shots fired on campus and a suspicious package. Students, faculty and staff should all familiarize themselves with the basic procedures to maintain as high a level of safety as possible.

All of SU’s emergency plans can be found at emergencyguide.syr.edu.  

Published on April 11, 2012 at 12:00 pm

Contact: opinion@dailyorange.com