10 Easy Ways to Create a Safer Church This Sunday

As in-person church attendance is increasing, now is a good time to review your practices as they relate to church safety. Safety doesn’t have to mean complex, expensive security systems. Here are 10 easy, practical steps your congregation can implement this Sunday to immediately enhance security and safety.

1. Implement a Two-Person Rule for Children

This is the golden standard for children’s ministry. Never allow one adult to be alone with one child or youth.

• Action for Sunday: Ensure every classroom or nursery location has at least two approved volunteers present whenever children are being supervised. This protects the children and the volunteers.

2. Establish Clear “Eyes and Ears” Volunteers

Designate a few trustworthy individuals to serve as informal security personnel, often called “Ushers” or “Safety Greeters.”

• Action for Sunday: Task two or three specific volunteers to focus on being the “eyes and ears” during the service. Their job is not to greet, but to discreetly observe behavior, watch entrances and exits, and know where the leadership is located if an incident occurs.

3. Secure Back and Side Entrances

While the main doors are usually monitored by greeters, back and side doors are often left propped open or unattended, creating easy access for unauthorized individuals.

• Action for Sunday: Ensure all secondary doors that do not require emergency access are locked and secured once the service begins. Post a small, clear sign redirecting visitors to the main entrance.

4. Check Fire and Emergency Exits

Emergency preparation is a critical component of church safety, especially with large groups.

• Action for Sunday: Before the service, have a team member walk the perimeter and verify that all fire exits are clearly marked, unlocked from the inside, and free of any obstructions (boxes, furniture, equipment, etc.) that would slow down an evacuation.

5. Centralize and Secure the Offering

Leaving the offering unattended—even briefly—creates a significant financial security risk.

• Action for Sunday: Implement a policy where the offering plates are immediately taken by two designated individuals to a secure, locked location (e.g., a treasurer’s office or secure safe) after they are collected, before the service is over.

6. Post Clear “Emergency Action” Signs

In a moment of crisis, people need immediate, clear directions. Panic reduces the ability to think rationally.

• Action for Sunday: Post a simple sign near the sanctuary or fellowship hall listing the key emergency numbers (e.g., 911), the church address, and the location of the nearest AED/First-Aid Kit. This simple measure saves precious seconds.

7. Know the Vulnerable Areas (Parking Lot & Drop-Off)

Parking lots are often the scene of accidents, thefts, or unwelcome behavior, especially after dark.

• Action for Sunday: Task one volunteer to periodically monitor the parking lot and surrounding grounds (perhaps every 15-20 minutes) during the service and immediately following dismissal. Their presence alone can be a strong deterrent.

8. Establish a Consistent Locking/Unlocking Procedure

Many security issues happen because volunteers assume someone else has secured the facility.

• Action for Sunday: Identify the final person responsible for closing the building. That person must have a written checklist ensuring all lights are off, all windows are locked, and all doors are double-checked before they leave.

9. Inventory and Check First-Aid/Safety Equipment

A first-aid kit is only useful if it’s stocked and accessible.

• Action for Sunday: Designate a volunteer to check the church’s primary First-Aid Kit and AED (if available). Ensure all supplies are present, within date, and that the kit is located in a prominent, known place.

10. Start a “See Something, Say Something” Culture

The most effective security plan relies on the participation of the entire congregation. People are often hesitant to report unusual activity, but an effective safety culture encourages communication.

• Action for Sunday: Include a brief, positive announcement during the service: “We want everyone to feel safe here. If you see something that looks unusual or concerning, please let an usher or pastor know right away.” Normalize and encourage discreet reporting.

This Sunday, try these ten easy, no-cost steps to a safer church! Foster a sense of safety so your congregation can focus on worship and community. Curious about church safety? Watch this FREE church webinar on religious freedom issues or request a quote for Church Insurance.

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