While churches are traditionally places of sanctuary and peace, it’s important to take proactive measures to protect attendees. Below are some recommendations to enhance the security of your church during service times, along with some specific strategies to ensure a secure environment.
1. Sanctuary Lockdown
One effective security measure is to secure the sanctuary once the service begins and keep the doors closed and monitored until just before dismissal. This approach is akin to how operas and professional sports events are managed:
- Entry Screening: Implement a screening process where people can enter through visual inspection and manual door opening. This ensures that everyone entering the sanctuary has been vetted.
- Controlled Access: Use trained volunteers or safety team members to monitor entry points and ensure that only permitted individuals gain access once the service is underway.
- Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels for staff and security volunteers to quickly respond to any incidents.
2. Parking Attendants as Security Assets
Parking attendants can play a vital role in maintaining security before, during, and after services. Here’s how they can help:
- Observing Suspicious Behavior: Train parking attendants to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or activities. They can be the first line of defense in identifying potential threats.
- Communication Tools: Equip them with communication tools like radios or mobile apps to instantly relay information to the inside security team.
- Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between parking attendants and security or inside personnel to ensure a cohesive security strategy.
3. Utilizing Drones for Situational Awareness
Drones can be a valuable asset for enhancing situational awareness around the church premises:
- Perimeter Scanning: Use drones to scan the outside and perimeter of the church before, during, and at release time. This can help gather intelligence on any suspicious vehicle(s), persons, or activities.
- Real-Time Information: Provide real-time information to the inside security teams to help them make informed decisions on whether to hold, release, secure or evacuate through a different egress / exit location.
- Preventive Measures: By identifying potential threats early, security teams can take preventive measures to mitigate risks.
Additional Recommendations
4. Security Personnel
- Hiring Professionals: Consider hiring professional security personnel with experience in managing large gatherings.
- Volunteer Training: Train volunteers to assist with safety / security measures, ensuring they know how to respond in emergency situations.
5. Surveillance Systems
- Installing Cameras: Install surveillance cameras in strategic locations around the church premises.
- Monitoring: Ensure that cameras are monitored in real-time by designated personnel.
6. Emergency Plans
- Developing Plans: Create comprehensive emergency plans for various scenarios, including active shooter situations, natural disasters, and medical emergencies.
- Regular Drills: Conduct regular drills to ensure that staff and volunteers are familiar with emergency procedures.
By implementing these security measures, churches can create a safer environment for worshippers while maintaining the sense of community and sanctuary that is integral to the church experience. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and ensure that your church remains a safe haven for all.