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Empowering Safer Schools & Organizations

Stay informed with expert insights, safety checklists, and the latest guidance in crisis management and security planning.

Checklists

General Safety and Security Guides

House of Worship Safety Checklist

This checklist is intended as a general guide to assist religious leaders in planning for the safety and security of their institution. It is not all-inclusive and does not constitute professional advice. Every organizational environment is unique, and security needs vary widely. Consult a certified safety or security professional for comprehensive assessments, recommendations, and implementation strategies. Use of this checklist is at your discretion and risk.

Conduct a Risk Assessment

  •  Identify key threats (e.g., violence, natural disasters, theft, vandalism, cyberattacks)

  • Review previous incidents or near-misses

  • Perform a security audit of the facility (entrances, windows, lighting, access control)

  • Assess neighborhood or community-specific risks (e.g., local tensions, crime trends)

Evaluate Emergency Preparedness

  • Create and regularly update emergency plans (fire, active shooter, evacuation, medical)

  • Mark and illuminate all exits and evacuation routes

  • Ensure emergency supplies are stocked (first aid, flashlights, batteries)

  • Train staff and volunteers on emergency roles and procedures

  • Coordinate plans with local first responders and law enforcement

Develop Volunteer & Staff Training

  • Provide de-escalation and threat recognition training

  • Run active shooter and emergency drills with staff

  • Assign roles for medical response, lockdown, or evacuation

  • Ensure ushers, clergy, and security are aware of protocols

  • Offer mental health and post-incident support training

Community Engagement & Support

  • Build relationships with local law enforcement and emergency services

  • Include safety briefings in annual meetings or newsletters

  • Host safety education events for congregants

  • Develop plans for helping vulnerable members during a crisis (e.g., elderly, disabled)

  • Review and update safety plans annually or after any significant event

Assess Facility Security & Access Control

  •  Secure all exterior doors with locks or controlled access systems

  • Limit the number of entry points during services and events

  • Install and maintain surveillance cameras and outdoor lighting

  • Use trained greeters or volunteers to monitor entrances

  • Establish procedures for unknown or suspicious visitors

Technology & Cybersecurity

  • Secure all networks and systems for donations, livestreams, and data storage.

  • Use multi-factor authentication for all administrator accounts

  • Train staff to recognize phishing and scams

  • Back up sensitive data regularly and store it off-site or in a secure cloud-based system

  • Review livestream protocols for security and privacy

Communication Planning

  • Maintain a master contact list of members and key personnel

  • Use group messaging tools or apps for rapid alerts

  • Create pre-written templates for crisis announcements

  • Designate a media spokesperson for post-incident communication

  • Translate alerts and instructions for multilingual congregations

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