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by members and visitors , as well as routinely dropping by the building during off-hours .
Next , form a close relationship with law enforcement . Help local authorities become familiar with your church and it ’ s layout by inviting them to host events on the property . Consider requesting officers add your facility to their patrol rounds . Additionally , make an effort to know key figures within the department so that if an incident does occur , you can more readily notify leading investigators .
Connect with other worship centers in the neighborhood to help alert one another of any suspicious activity or incidents – if criminals have targeted one church they are likely to target others in the area .
DO NOT LOOK LIKE AN EASY TARGET
Maintaining your church ’ s property can help reduce its chances of becoming a mark . Trim and prune landscaping that could shield potential thieves from sight . Install motion-sensor or timed lights in the parking lot and walkways to help deter criminals who prefer operating in the dark . Finally , do not let general upkeep slide . If it looks like someone cares for the property , thieves are less likely to choose it for their next score .
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You can also make it clear to criminals that your facility is well protected by posting signs that declare the security measures you have taken . This can include noting that there is no cash on the premises or that security cameras are in use .
INVEST IN PRACTICAL SECURITY SOLUTIONS
Thanks to modern technology , video surveillance , alarm systems and access controls can be found for nearly every price point . Assess your risks and research your options to find the right system for your church .
LIMIT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CRIME
Create and communicate policies that help ensure the safety of your building . Below are some policy suggestions any church can use :
• Ask members to use only one primary entrance to the building .
• Lock interior rooms when not in use .
• Never prop open doors or windows .
• Conduct weekly walk-throughs to look for any signs of suspicious activity .
• Use a security service to pick up cash deposits . If this isn ’ t possible , two or more people should make the deposit together .
• Limit the number of people who have key access and ensure that any exchanges of keys are documented .
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• Encourage a “ see something , say something ” mentality for all members .
• Store valuables in a locked room , cabinet or safe when not in use .
Insurance can often help replace the financial loss churches can experience after a break-in or theft . However , once a church has experienced a crime , it can be hard for its members to regain the sense of safety lost . Help best protect your members and property by developing a security plan that addresses your church ’ s unique risks and concerns .
Author Shawn Yingling is the
president of Glatfelter
Religious Practice ( GRP ).
GRP specializes in insurance
and risk management
programs for churches and other religious
institutions and is a division of Glatfelter
Insurance Group ( an AIG company ), one of
the largest program managers in the U . S .
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He can be reachat syingling @ glatfelters . com .
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TCN PROFESSIONAL JOURNAL FALL 2021 |