Church security

[theP8riot]

Well, two weeks ago there was an auto burglary at my church. We have decided to start having a group of the men take turns with security duties during the night service. The main thing that concerns us is what would the burglars have done if the lady whose vehicle was broken into had been outside at that time.

I guess I am interested in hearing about what type of security you all have in place at your places of worship. Most of us will not be armed however there are a few men that are already permitted to carry at the church with the pastors approval per SC law.

 

[CrawdaddyJim]

Lights and cameras. Restrict access to the parking area as much as feasible. This will deter most if not all break in attempts. Signs posted stating you are being filmed around the perimeter.

 

[tblt]

I carry

I carry at church but nobody knows not even my wife.

 

[sacp81170a]

Definitely need cell phones and maybe some FRS or GRS radios to communicate with those inside. Your main job is to be a good witness (pun intended) and to confront only if violence is imminent. CCW is a good idea as is OC, but remember to check your state's laws on trespassing carefully so you'll have a good idea of how to articulate and justify whatever level of force you may need to use. Churches are private property for the most part as far as the law is concerned.

 

[SA Friday]

How would you like to have to explain that one at the pearly gates, robbing a car in a church parking lot.

 

[doc2rn]

I saw a homeless guy looking in car windows and trying locks in '91 or '92. I walked over to him, took him to my batterred Mitsu and handed him the army blanket from the trunk. Took him in gave him some coffee and soup, let him use the latrine, and he was very nice. Pastor took him to the mission, last I heard he was working for the railroad. I saw him this past week at church, he dropped a huge envelope in the plate, then quietly left durring a prayer. Not everyone is out to get you, some are just searching for God's path in their life. I am my brother's keeper.

 

[Buck shot]

From what I understand you can't select security to protect the church. What I know you can do is discuss among the folks that you know carry and come up with a safety plan.

I agree with the idea of the lights and cameras. Even if the cameras are not working they would make people wonder if they are being recorded.

 

[Double Naught Spy]

How would you like to have to explain that one at the pearly gates, robbing a car in a church parking lot.

Well, you would explain that you were burglarizing the car for starters..., but you don't have to explain it. They already know. That is where the whole omnipotence thing comes into play.

Our church doesn't have any security beyond lighting. There are several church members who do carry, but not with any knowledge of the church itself.

 

[ZeSpectre]

I carry at church but nobody knows not even my wife.

The irony of this statement has kept me laughing for the past five minutes

 

[dralarms]

doc2rn,

God Bless you, you might have even entertained an angel that night. You never know. Wished there were more people out there like you.

 

[bsf]

Lights and cameras. Restrict access to the parking area as much as feasible. This will deter most if not all break in attempts. Signs posted stating you are being filmed around the perimeter.

Cockroaches prefer the dark.

 

[Autolycus]

If the woman was outside and caught them in the act that is one thing. However if she does not have to engage them, then she should not. Let them take the stereo and other items. Your life and those of your family are not worth risking over.

What is your church security going to do? I would suggest they just report it to police if they catch someone. If there is an active threat to lives than they should act but otherwise dont engage threats.

I would also suggest hiring a private security firm or off duty LEOs for liability reasons. Your church could be sued if one of the security guards get over zealous in their duties.

 

[cambeul41]

http://www.churchsecurityservices.com/

 

[rrruuunnn]

i wouldn't confront a burglar. i would act like the car did not belong to me. and call for help. the 911 operator should guide you through. no car is worth your life. what if the burglar had a knife or gun.

if you can install video cameras. but the parking lot is probably too big. and our cameras need to be really close to catch a face or description. luckily our window and backdoor is small enough identify the burglars when we catch them. but surveillance may come in handy.

 

[btg3]

We have a large church campus with multiple parking areas and multiple access points to parking and to buildings. Selected men serve on security teams which patrol buildings and outside areas during all services. Each man has a 2-way radio. Any unlocked entrances to buildings are manned. We try to be as visible as possible with radios in hand, security badges clipped on our jacket, a friendly smile, and a spirit of invitation and assistance. If someone seems out of place, they will be invited to take a seat, explain themselves, or leave -- with appropriate assistance. There is no engagement without radio contact for backup.

Weekly email and posts at the security desk help coordinate the teams and provide updates as to known/potential threats.

Several regular attendees are LEO and 1st responders. They are immediately available when needed.

Under consideration:
-- Replace all keyed locks with programmable card-swipe locks.
-- Approve CC for some of the security team. (Several have CC permits, but state law requires specific pastoral approval for church property.)