Topic 4: Swatting or Threat-Related Communication Protocol

Topic 4: Swatting or Threat-Related Communication Protocol

Objective:
To manage swatting incidents (false reports intended to provoke emergency response) with rapid, factual communication that calms community concern and supports law enforcement investigation.

Internal and External Stakeholders:

• Internal: School Secretaries, Principals, Superintendent, Program Manager of Communications and Strategic Initiatives

• External: Police, Students, Families, Local Media

Step-by-Step Operations Procedure:

1. Secretary receiving the threat call:

   • Takes detailed notes

   • Immediately contacts police (911)

   • Informs Principal, then Superintendent

2. Superintendent activates emergency protocol, involving police and safety teams.

3. Program Manager of Communications and Strategic Initiatives begins drafting a clear, factual message.

Step-by-Step Communications Procedure:

1. Initial message confirms a potential threat was received and law enforcement is responding.

2. Regular updates are issued via app, website, and email.

3. When cleared, a follow-up statement explains the nature of the swatting incident.

4. Social media responses are managed using official language only.

Possible Communication Mediums:

• Website Banner

• App Alert

• Parent Email

• Social Media (Brief + Referral to Full Statement)

• Local News Coordination