How should a PSO respond to a bomb threat?

When responding to a bomb threat, the primary responsibility of a Protective Security Officer (PSO) is to ensure the safety of individuals in the vicinity. Evacuating the area if necessary is a critical response to mitigate any potential risks associated with a bomb threat. This action prioritizes the welfare of people and minimizes the chance of injury should the threat be credible.

Evacuating the area allows for a systematic approach to managing the threat, providing safe space for emergency responders to investigate without putting individuals at risk. The PSO must assess the situation, and if there are indications that the threat may be real, taking the precautionary measure of evacuation is both logical and prudent.

In addition, waiting for instructions from management, while it may be part of a protocol in some contexts, can delay immediate action that ensures safety. Similarly, activating an alarm or searching for suspicious packages should not take precedence over evacuating people when lives may be in danger. Security personnel must always assess and act to protect from potential harm.