Steps you can take toward lowering the risk of such an event
We addressed the topic of armed intruders in businesses and in schools in previous blog posts. Unfortunately, today we’ll be looking at shootings that take place in churches, mosques, synagogues and other houses of worship.
A recent survey revealed that Americans’ fear of armed intruders far surpasses their fears of natural disasters, cyber criminals, or sexual assaults. Just over 50% of the 2000 participants surveyed said they attend a place of worship regularly. Apparently, 12% of Americans do not feel safe in their house of worship, according to the same survey conducted by Church Mutual Insurance Co.
“It’s deeply upsetting that today’s worshippers, regardless of religion, have to contend with the very real possibility of an armed intruder,” said Rich Poirier, president and CEO of Church Mutual.
Churches and other religious organizations are now asking the same question schools and businesses ask: What should we do if an armed intruder enters the facility? The answer is the same for everyone: have a response plan in place.
Only 39% of survey participants said “yes” when asked if their place of worship had an armed intruder prevention or response plan. Sixty-one percent said either they did not or didn’t know.
Basics of a response plan
Any steps an organization takes toward preparing for and responding to an armed intruder offer the potential for saving lives.
The first step is forming a security team that creates formal security policies and procedures. Among the topics to include are team member responsibilities and establishing a chain of command, incident reporting, communication and medical response.
Seek input from local law enforcement and legal professionals when developing these policies and procedures. Ask local law enforcement to conduct a free “security vulnerability assessment” of your buildings and grounds. They will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the current security practices at your facility.
Additionally, it is important that security team members receive regular training on policies, procedures, mock scenarios, emergency first aid, etc. If weapons are involved, members should also receive weapons proficiency training. Always document and retain records for all training received.
Establish rally points and develop a method of communication to account for all members, guests and employees in attendance.
Educate the congregation of the established security policy manual and create a culture of awareness. Encourage reporting of suspicious behavior. Consider certifying employees in ALICE training (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate).
Armed congregants
Only your organization can decide whether to permit or prohibit weapons by employees, congregants and visitors in your facility. However, those individuals and your organization must comply with local or state laws. Be sure to document your decision in your policies, procedures, and signage.
The responsibilities differ between those carrying a weapon on their own behalf and those acting on behalf of the organization. Anyone carrying a concealed weapon who is not part of a formalized armed security team should not be carrying a weapon on behalf of your organization.
Take into serious consideration the risk and liability exposure that weapons create. Your organization can be held liable for any incidents that arise from the use of weapons on behalf of your organization. When you permit individuals to carry weapons on behalf of your organization or while serving your organization, much of the responsibility and liability for their actions transfers to your organization.
