by Dave Roberts » Mon Nov 06, 2017 8:31 am
I have been in places with detailed security plans and those where plans were scoffed in the past. It's important that the plan details be known only to those who are to execute them. We had one where an off-duty police officer was always armed (as his job required this). The bare minimum is to have two designated people to call for emergency assistance. If everyone is calling, you have confusion for 911 communications people. Also, Sandy is right to have ushers who are prepared to direct evacuations, but so many churches are basically traps for shooters with second-floor sanctuaries, narrow corridors out the front or rear of the sanctuary, and few ways to reach the outside. Consult with local law enforcement who will be happy to meet with church groups to help them prepare. Also, be certain that not all landline telephones are locked away in offices but that at least one is available at two different locations in the buildings. If many people begin calling, cell service may become jammed and landlines the only reliable way to communicate.