These are the best ways to report school threats on social media

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — An estimated 45 West Virginia schools received possible threats this week as part of an ongoing trend across the country.

Most of the threats were from social media posts, and while a majority were deemed not credible, a juvenile was arrested after a threat to Preston High School .

After a possible threat to Robert C. Byrd High School in Clarksburg was investigated, Harrison County law enforcement and school officials held a press conference , urging reports of possible violence to be made through the proper channels, instead of posted on social media.

Here are the ways you should report possible threats if you see them on social media or elsewhere, according to officials.

Contact Law Enforcement

If you are concerned about a school’s safety, the best thing to do is call 911 and report it. Harrison County Sheriff Robert Matheny said that of the at least dozen reports about the alleged threat at RCB on Thursday, only a few were reported through the proper channels.

If there is an active emergency, calling 911 should always be your first response. For less immediate concerns, citizens can call the non-emergency number for their local law enforcement office.

Safe Schools hotline

Community members can also report possible threats through the Safe Schools hotline. The 24-hour toll free number can be called at 1-866-723-3982. Anyone can call the helpline anonymously to report possible danger to schools, including violence, weapons, threats, thefts/property damage, drug/alcohol abuse or sexual harassment.

There is also a Safe School Helpline app that some north central West Virginia school districts, including Harrison County Schools, have subscribed to .

The hotline is not a place to report an active emergency. If there is an emergency, call 911.

See Something, Send Something app

The West Virginia Emergency Management Division said that reports can also be made on the “See Send” app. The app is a nationwide suspicious activity reporting tool that people can use to report possible threats, connect with intelligence centers and get resources.

The See Something, Send Something app is available to download for free on Apple and Android .

The app is not a place to report an active emergency. If there is an emergency, call 911.

What not to do

During the press conference, Harrison County officials urged community members to avoid posting rumors about possible threats on social media.

“This situation escalated out of control due to the numerous rumors and conjecture posted on social media,” Harrison County officials said in a release to media.

Officials encouraged parents to have conversations with their children about social media and the possible consequences of making false threats.

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