1. Install video surveillance.
Every business, school and place of worship should maintain a video system that monitors live or later. Consider CCTV cameras that is capable of high-resolution image quality. Not only does this help you keep eyes on the entire building during gatherings, it provides plenty of accountability for everyone in leadership.
2. Lock doors after services begin.
As a general rule of thumb and if you are able to, lock entrances five minutes after services begins and unlock when services ends. This prevents strangers from entering the building without anybody’s knowledge.
3. Keep a designated security team near entrances.
Since congregants often run late, security personnel should be at the doors to screen visitors before entering. Security does not necessarily need to be professionals, but make sure they are familiar with the building layout and know what to do in an emergency.
4. Discuss emergency procedures with the congregation.
The people within the place of worship also need to know how to respond to emergencies. Once or twice a year, conduct a meeting for going over emergency procedures. Explain where to go, what to do, whom to respond to, etc.
5. Implement lockdown drills.
Warn members ahead of time to limit unnecessary fear. Lockdown drills are a great practice for emergency response in a place of worship. Make sure everyone responds correctly and goes to the proper place. Contact the Peel Police Emergency Management coordinator regarding the Police Response Emergency Plan.
6. Alarm System.
Minimize the risk of unwarranted entry with the help of intrusion alarm systems. Consider installing panic buttons strategically throughout the building with immediate response by Police.
7. Protective car barriers.
Adding decorative planters or other barriers on sidewalks or front entrances will not just add a little greenery to your landscape, but prevents a car from driving onto property and intentionally crashing into your building.
8. Interact.
If you do not recognize someone and they seem suspicious — say hello. Are they blowing you off? Are they genuinely interacting? That will give security personnel a good feel for the person and help you determine if they should intervene.
9. Limit access to children’s areas.
The only people who need to be present children areas are teachers, staff, children, and parents.
10. Security Guard.
Consider hiring extra security to secure the building and parking lot as well as to provide traffic control.
11.Cash Handling.
Ensure that money and/or donations are not kept onsite while the premise is unoccupied. Consider using electronic donation systems to eliminate any cash on site. Display signage at entrances to indicate that there is no cash kept on the premise.
Across Peel Region and the Greater Toronto Area, there has been a rise in thefts targeting vehicles from residential driveways at night. To create public awareness and share tips and resources, we have launched a #9PMRoutine campaign to help keep your vehicle safe.
