LAKELAND, FL (Oct. 23, 2009) – All Florida Southern College buildings were evacuated immediately this morning following a bomb threat. By noon, the Lakeland Police Department and Polk County Sheriff’s Office had searched and cleared all buildings for re-entry. Classes were cancelled for the remainder of the day; all evening events will still occur.

Immediately following the bomb threat, the Lakeland Police Department worked with Campus Safety personnel to ensure the timely evacuation of all campus buildings. The campus emergency public address and text messaging systems also were activated to enhance emergency communications. Test message and e-mail updates continued throughout the morning and afternoon.

The College wishes to thank the FSC Emergency Response Team, Lakeland Police Department, and Polk County Sheriff’s Office for their quick response and smooth execution of the College’s Emergency Response Plan.

Text Messaging Sign Up:
Students, parents, faculty, and staff are reminded that they can sign up for emergency notification text messaging. FSC has a state-of-the-art notification system that is capable of sending notifications instantly and simultaneously to all registered mobile phones, Blackberrys, wireless PDAs, pagers, Smart or Satellite phones, and e-mail addresses. This is FSC’s primary emergency notification system and is used for critical announcements only. The system allows the College to provide effective communication prior to, during, and following emergencies.

Reward for Information Leading to Arrest and Conviction:A bomb threat is a felony offense. The College is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offender. Anyone with information should call 1.800.226.TIPS (8477) or go on-line to heartlandcrimestoppers.com.