Protecting Houses of Worship - Part II

by John Daniels

Chief Security Officer, Securepoint

Protecting houses of worship is a crucial aspect of maintaining religious freedom, community safety, and social harmony. Religious institutions can sometimes be targets of hate crimes, vandalism, or other security threats. Creating and maintaining a holistic security plan for these venues is critical to ensuring that these spaces are safe, protected, and available to the communities they serve.

Periodically, we will share best practices from our internal playbook and resources.

Here are some steps that can be taken to enhance the protection of houses of worship:

Securepoint Tip Sheet #2

6. Community Engagement: Foster positive relationships with local law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and neighbors. This can lead to increased vigilance and support in times of need.

7. Cybersecurity: Ensure that any online platforms or systems associated with the house of worship are secure. Protect sensitive information and be cautious about sharing personal information online.

8. Crisis Communication: Develop a crisis communication plan that outlines how information will be communicated to congregants and the public in case of an incident.

9. Lighting and Landscaping: Maintain proper lighting both inside and outside the premises to discourage illegal activities during low-light hours. Trim landscaping to eliminate potential hiding spots.

10. Safety Training: Provide safety training for congregants and staff, including basic first aid, situational awareness, and what to do in case of emergencies.

Securepoint is a company that believes in making free speech safe. We can provide solutions for your organization and your people. For more information, please see our website, www.securepoint.tech, or contact Claudia Haase at claudia@securepoint.tech or +1 (646) 458 1423.