This is an important question for struggling congregations. It may seem that everyone is overworked now and adding more responsibilities would be too much. There may be serious leadership limitations that prevent the forming of a Safety Committee and Safety Teams. These may include one or more of the following challenges:
- There are no mature adults interested in safety.
- The pastor or elders do not want the job and do not wish to share decision-making.
- Leadership believes it is not responsible if it does not acknowledge that responsibility.
- There is confusion over the belief that one person must perform all roles.
In truth, even very small churches can have an effective safety program or emphasis. This can start with a small core Team and some simple training for those who are willing.
An example is first aid. This training generally requires one Saturday morning every two years as a beginning. While one or two adults may lead and be primary responders, it is possible to train even high school students and others to perform basic Red Cross first aid skills. These range from minor wound bandaging, to dealing with choking children and adults, to recognizing strokes and heart attacks. The “Team” may expand greatly with little effort and cost while improving the skills and confidence within the congregation.
Another example is identifying and eliminating child hazards. A class concerning hazards for young children could result in 3-5 people performing sweeps of the building and grounds periodically. This would take about an hour for the class and perhaps an hour for the sweep. The benefit is that those people should recognize hazards and look for them regularly. Youth safety training will be mentioned later.
If your church has Greeters at the door(s), then you already have the beginning of Security and Evacuation Teams regardless of the tactics you later agree upon for Security. The remaining questions involve organization, communication, strategies, equipment, and tactics.
My church started its internal radio communication system for less than $100. It is expandable and reliable. From an attendance of 120 people in the worship service, our First Aid Team grew quickly as Red Cross classes were performed, our Greeters became more attentive to those coming in, and several joined the Security Team. Most safety volunteers have additional roles in the church but are willing to provide this additional service for the congregation. Those with first aid training make more confident teachers, parents, and grandparents.