Guns in Churches - How to Safeguard them from Acts of Terrorism?
The recent attacks on churches around the world are the evidence of little to no security in churches. Churches are sacred places where people go in search of peace and solace. Yet, anti-social elements of the society take it as an opportunity to spread terror amongst people. Therefore, there is a dire need to bring the issue of security and safety of churches at the forefront.
Here are some of these issues that must be addressed immediately!
A Dedicated Security Team
Having a dedicated security team for all churches is essential. Although it is impossible for the government to allocate trained security personnel for each church, pastors and other church leaders can start building their own security team by gathering volunteers who are willing to support the security of their neighborhood churches.
Tailor-Made Training
The security training requirements of a church are slightly different from the regular security training. Therefore, once a team of volunteers is in place, church leaders can organize tailor-made and customized training for the security teams. This will ensure that a team of trained people is in place at the time of sudden terrorist attacks or crisis. This will save a significant amount of time and money of the government as well as the churches.
Controlled Operational Hours
Churches must have controlled operational hours during which the public can have access to enter the premises. These designated public hours must be allocated,and the responsible church personnel must also ensure the availability of at least a few volunteers or employees inside the church at all times, especially when the doors of a church are unlocked for the public. There is immense safety in numbers,and therefore, no member of the staff must be alone in a room to safeguard the security of a church.
Support from Church and The Pastor Community
It can be immensely beneficial to research for church members or people in the pastor community who have some kind of background of public safety. They can then be further trained to become a part of the volunteer security team. They must be scheduled to be available inside the premises of a church every time there is an event or church services. They must also be provided with specialized training in church security to act appropriately in the event of a crisis.
Regular Meetings to Touch Base on Church Security
There must be a specific church communication plan or regular meetings in order to touch base and enforce the rules for the church security. These meetings will also be helpful to make the members of a church aware of the security measures in place for the safety of a church. It will be even better if these meetings are made public so that if anyone around or in the midst intends harm on a church, there are plenty of eyes around to watch them.
In this regard, you might also find it beneficial to avail professional services of a security team such as Mission Security in order to protect churches as well as other religious buildings from terrorist attacks and other