SecurityAdvisoryCouncil.com
Security Risk Analysis - Issues - Strategies - Solutions - Resources
Security Risk Advisory Consultants - Security Planning & Education
Security MostWanted For America!
CHURCH SECURITY
Church Security Involves Awareness and Being Prepared
Many church administrators do not see the need for a church security system. They sometimes feel that a security system does not belong in a church environment and that such a system would convey the wrong message to the parishioners. Unfortunately, violence and theft in churches and synagogues are becoming more and more prevalent in today's world.
Church Security does not Have to Convey Distrust
A properly installed church security system will not impair the feeling of openness and trust that most congregations wish to convey. Church security is as much about awareness and being prepared for the unexpected as it is about intrusive video surveillance and intrusion detection equipment.
There are many things church leaders can do to create a safe environment for the church members
Theft and vandalism can be reduced by eliminating landscaping that blocks the view of the church.
Providing sufficient outdoor lighting.
Greeters and ushers should have training to recognize suspicious situations or persons.
Children should be monitored closely and only released to parents or authorized persons.
A complete and thorough background check or references must be available on all employees and volunteers. This is of special concern for volunteers who work with children.
Create a security or safety committee. Many times there will be a member with security background that can volunteer their time.
Develop an emergency plan that covers not only dealing with dangerous intruders but also natural disasters that may occur. This plan should be reviewed and tested periodically.
Money and valuable items should be secured and listed for insurance purposes.
Hire a professional security consultant to review your particular needs. Some security hardware will need to be acquired, but substantial savings can be realized by carefully planning and designing your church security system before you buy.
You must consider all the uses of the facility. Many churches provide a weekly daycare center as well as outside playground areas that will need to be monitored. If your church is used for a community meeting facility for a variety of organizations, some form of intrusion detection and access control might be a necessity.
Video Surveillance can Serve a Dual Purpose
Some churches with sizeable congregations have been able to utilize their video surveillance equipment to provide video streaming of their services on the internet. This is something that can enhance the return on your investment for a security system. Be sure and check with your insurance company to determine what savings you might receive by installing a security system in your church or synagogue.
By Signing Up For Our News Letter, You Will Receive The Latest Security News
Once-A-Month!
