CISA’s Office for Bombing Prevention (OBP) recently released updates to its Bomb Threat Guide. The guide is intended to help organizations revise or develop a bomb threat response plan and contingencies in the event an incident involving an explosive device. Given the heightened threat environment, including multiple bomb threats across the country just last week, utilites are encouraged to review this resource.
The updated guide, specifically, expands on previous guidance by providing additional information that will contribute to an orderly and controlled response to a bomb threat. According to OBP, bomb threats can severely impact organizations and personnel regardless of the perpetrator’s intent. Primary impacts, such as operational and psychological, can be witnessed immediately; however, secondary impacts, such as the financial implications, may take time to fully realize. The guide helps minimize and mitigate these potential outcomes. Whether responding to an improvised explosive device (IED) or a bomb threat, having a clear, specific, and well-developed plan can save lives and protect critical infrastructure. Each bomb threat is unique and requires rapid evaluation to mitigate the immediate impact and manage in accordance with site needs.
CISA OBP recommends owners and operators periodically review federal guidance and collaborate with first responders to establish and rehearse a bomb threat management plan that addresses each risk level appropriate for their specific site location. Highlights from the Bomb Threat Guide include planning and preparation sections, threat assessments, response options, suspicious items recognition, and additional resources and training opportunities.
Upon releasing the guide, CISA OBP’s Training Branch Chief Curt Tilley noted, “In 2022, the United States witnessed a 35% increase in bomb threats from the previous year. As such, it is more important than ever to remain vigilant in planning for these incidents to mitigate the impact on personnel and infrastructure.” In January, for example, WaterISAC reported on a bomb threat incident at a water utility. According to police, a previously terminated employee allegedly called in a bomb threat to three Aquarion Water Company locations. The former employee was arrested shortly thereafter. Access the updated Bomb Threat Guide here.
Additionally, given the frequent sharing of tactical guidance on how to manufacture explosives, WaterISAC encourages its members to consider the risks of violent extremists employing explosives in attacks on their infrastructure and plan accordingly. WaterISAC encourages members to visit the DHS OBP website. OBP’s mission is to help organizations prepare for, assess, and respond to a bomb threat and with that goal it offers multiple free products, training courses, and resources. Additionally, WaterISAC hosted a briefing with OBP in July – the recording and presentation are available here.
