Security is a growing need in many churches, synagogues, and many other places of Worship. Security for some churches and other places of worship is not required. However, many places of worship that are implementing the idea are finding that their security problems are waning. Creating a security team is an excellent idea, but would it be worth forming if mass chaos breaks out and there is no plan in place to help if security is breached? Think about it, having a plan in place during a time of panic is crucial in making sure people stay safe and orderly. Those who know what to do in a time of emergency can most often become survivors of that incident.

The Run, Hide, Fight Methodology for Place of Worship

Run, Hide, Fight is a great tactic to use in a last ditch effort to stay safe. If you adopt this methodology in your place of worship, then it should frequently be practiced. This Methodology is being practiced throughout the country and has proven to keep people safe.

Run

Your place of worship should have an escape plan in case of a fire or an emergency. As a leader, it is necessary to determine which exits are appropriate for the different groups of your congregation. It is also necessary to create alternate routes for the various areas in your facility if a zone becomes the point of danger. You do not want people running toward harm’s way!

Hide

There are two options if you are in the part of the facility that is in danger. You can hide in the best location you can find, or you can choose to fight. If you decide to hide, or your area goes into a lockdown situation, choose a place you feel will help you stay as safe as possible. Stay there and wait until help arrives. It is important that this area covers your entire body. Do not choose a place that will leave any part of your body exposed. Finally, you should not choose a hiding place that will harm you or others.

Fight

This option is often the last resort in this particular methodology. Unlike running or hiding, fighting has a much higher risk of injury. Moreover, the threat of injury is there, but that does not mean that this option should not be used. When you start fighting, there is no other option for you. You have to stand your ground until the threat has ended or you see an opportunity to run away from the threat. When you fight, you can use any means possible to stay alive, and you can use whatever is near you to help ward off the threat. Do not try to BE A HERO, but fight to STAY ALIVE. If running or hiding is an option, use those options first.

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