Have you brushed up on your security policies lately? Ask these 4 questions about your ministry’s security before the holidays roll around. 

4 Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Ministry’s Holiday Security

With the holiday around the corner, no doubt your church is ready to welcome guests with open arms. But this joyful season is no reason to be laid back about security. Do a quick brush-up on basic security prior to the holiday rush by answering these questions:

#1. Are entrances to your church and ministry limited and monitored?

Once church services begin, ensure access to your children’s area is limited. Allow access through one monitored entrance only, and ensure the person who monitors this area is a guest-welcoming pro.

#2. Are your volunteers clearly identified?

Have your team members wear identifiable name badges with a photo to help parents and guests know who you allow to be with kids. When you have outside adults in your children’s ministry space, such as contractors, get their information such as a name, phone number, and driver’s license.

#3. Is security in place and equipped?

Volunteers focused on security can walk through and monitor hallways to ensure guests who may be lost find their way and that no unidentified individuals are wandering the halls. If possible, equip them with two-way radios for communication.

#4. Is your emergency plan in place?

Ensure prior to the busiest time of year that everyone serving in a security capacity received training on emergency procedures. Train your volunteers on what to do in an emergency situation. Ensure that each room has access to cellular service or a two-way radio. Post emergency contact numbers and procedures inside rooms near the door. (And make sure that information is updated, too!)

Try This Holiday Security Must-Have!

As always, it’s important to know the history of your volunteers and staff. Background checks can reveal red flags for behaviors you need to know about. In addition, should any sort of litigation ever emerge against your organization, you must show your due diligence in screening volunteers and staff. Shepherd’s Watch gives you affordable background checks with accurate results. Find out more about Shepherd’s Watch.

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Looking for more information on keeping your ministry safe? Check out these posts!