What Percent of Bomb Threats are Real?
Bomb threats are a serious concern for law enforcement agencies, schools, and businesses around the world. With the increasing threat of terrorism and the rise of prank calls, it’s essential to understand the reality of bomb threats and the percentage of real threats. In this article, we’ll delve into the statistics and explore the percentage of bomb threats that are real.
What is a Bomb Threat?
A bomb threat is a call, email, or message that claims the existence of an explosive device, whether it’s a hoax or a real threat. Bomb threats can be made by individuals, groups, or even countries, and they can be directed at public places, private businesses, or individuals.
Statistics on Bomb Threats
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there were 13,471 reported bomb threats in the United States in 2020. While this number may seem alarming, it’s essential to note that not all bomb threats are real. In fact, only about 1% of bomb threats are deemed credible and result in an evacuation or search.
Here’s a breakdown of the statistics:
- 90% of bomb threats are false alarms, made by individuals who are trying to cause panic or disruption.
- 5% of bomb threats are deemed suspicious but not credible, meaning that they are investigated but do not result in an evacuation or search.
- 1% of bomb threats are deemed credible and result in an evacuation or search.
Types of Bomb Threats
Bomb threats can take many forms, including:
- Hoax calls: False reports of a bomb threat made to cause panic or disruption.
- Swatting: A form of harassment where a false report of a bomb threat is made to attract a SWAT team response.
- Threats via social media: Bomb threats made via social media platforms, which can be difficult to trace.
- Threats via email or text message: Bomb threats made via electronic means, which can be investigated and traced.
Consequences of Bomb Threats
Bomb threats can have serious consequences, including:
- Evacuations: Schools, businesses, and public places may be evacuated, causing disruption and inconvenience.
- Resource allocation: Law enforcement agencies and emergency services may be diverted to respond to a bomb threat, taking away resources from other important tasks.
- Psychological impact: Bomb threats can cause anxiety, fear, and stress for individuals, particularly in high-stress situations like schools or workplaces.
Investigating Bomb Threats
When a bomb threat is reported, law enforcement agencies follow a protocol to investigate and determine the credibility of the threat. The process typically involves:
- Initial response: Police and emergency services respond to the scene to assess the situation and secure the area.
- Investigation: Investigators review evidence, interview witnesses, and gather information to determine the credibility of the threat.
- Search and evacuation: If the threat is deemed credible, the area may be evacuated and searched for any explosive devices.
Prevention and Deterrence
While bomb threats are a serious concern, there are steps that can be taken to prevent and deter them:
- Awareness and education: Educating the public about the consequences of making false bomb threats and the importance of reporting credible threats.
- Security measures: Implementing security measures such as metal detectors, surveillance cameras, and access control systems.
- Investigation and prosecution: Investigating and prosecuting individuals who make false bomb threats to deter others from doing the same.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while bomb threats are a serious concern, the majority of threats are false alarms made by individuals who are trying to cause panic or disruption. By understanding the statistics and consequences of bomb threats, we can work to prevent and deter them, and ensure that our communities are safe and secure.
Table: Bomb Threat Statistics
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total reported bomb threats | 13,471 |
| False alarms | 12,134 (90%) |
| Suspicious but not credible | 674 (5%) |
| Credible and resulted in evacuation or search | 143 (1%) |
Key Takeaways
- Only 1% of bomb threats are deemed credible and result in an evacuation or search.
- 90% of bomb threats are false alarms made by individuals trying to cause panic or disruption.
- Bomb threats can have serious consequences, including evacuations, resource allocation, and psychological impact.
- Investigating bomb threats requires a protocol of initial response, investigation, and search and evacuation.
- Prevention and deterrence measures include awareness and education, security measures, and investigation and prosecution.
