You may have heard that explosive devices were recently sent to the homes of some prominent former government officials as well as to the offices of CNN in New York. None of the devices harmed anyone and law enforcement officials are currently investigating.
Columbia’s Department of Public Safety remains in close contact with law enforcement agencies and is on heightened alert.
While we have no reason to believe Columbia is a target, as always, be aware of your surroundings, and if you observe a suspicious or abandoned package or object, please do the following:
- Remain calm.
- Do not disturb or move the object.
- Warn others to leave the area and secure the area, if possible.
- Retreat to a safe distance—at least 300 feet.
- Do not use mobile phones or other electronic devices while in the immediate area of the object.
- Call Public Safety at 212-854-5555 (Morningside), 212-854-3333 (Manhattanville) or 212-305-7979 (Medical Center). Give your name, exact location inside the building and a description of the package or object.
- Do not reoccupy space until authorized by emergency responders or Public Safety personnel.
The USPS also has a helpful Suspicious Mail or Packages poster you may want to review.
Thank you for doing your part to help keep our campus community safe.