GuideOne keeps detailed records about the types of claims and losses that churches experience across the United States. Based on a careful analysis of those records over the past several years, GuideOne has compiled the following list of the most frequent causes of church losses.

1. Wind and hail
2. Falls
3. Water damage
4. Criminal property damage (theft, burglary and vandalism)
5. Accidental fires
6. Lightning damage
7. Recreational activity injuries
8. Arson
9. Sexual misconduct incidents
10. Maintenance injuries

In addition to helping churches recognize their greatest risks, this list can serve as an excellent guide to assist churches in prioritizing safety and security precautions.

Most Losses Can be Avoided
Although certain losses, such as wind and hail damage are virtually impossible to avoid, it’s important for churches to know that most claims can be prevented. In fact, according to additional research, more than half of all church losses could have been minimized or prevented if the church would have taken the proper precautions ahead of time. In the section that follows are ten steps to do just that.

10 Easy Steps to a Safer, More Secure Church

1. Form a Safety and Security Team
A great starting point for many churches is to form a Safety and Security Team with volunteers who are passionate about protecting the church. If congregation members have experience related to safety and security it’s also a plus. The goal of this team is to begin identifying risks at the church and formulating a safety and security program.

2. Inspect the Building and Grounds Regularly
The Safety and Security Team should coordinate regular inspections of the facilities and surrounding property. At a minimum, every spring and fall, a comprehensive and detailed inspection should be completed, ideally by qualified inspectors, such as electrical, HVAC, fire prevention and/or plumbing contractors. On at least a monthly basis, regular walk-through inspections should be completed, and any items needing attention should be repaired promptly.

3. Remove Snow and Ice Promptly
In regions prone to freezing winter conditions, snow and ice can cause numerous slip and fall injuries. Therefore, snow and ice should be removed promptly from sidewalks, stairs and parking lot areas for the safety of visitors. Ice-Melt or similar products are recommended for frozen patches or areas likely to refreeze. Walk-off mats or specially designed walk-off tiles also are helpful in poor weather conditions.

4. Guard Against Water Damage
Frozen pipes that break, leaking roofs, drain blockages and sewer lines that back up and overflow are several major causes of water damage in churches that are costly to repair. To guard against these risks, there are a number of steps churches can take. The roof should be well maintained. There should be adequate insulation and ventilation. The baptistery should be monitored to prevent overflow. Water pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures should be insulated. Sewer backflow prevention valves and sewer system cleanouts can be installed. Regular inspections of the facility are key. And, the addition of a water leak detection system is recommended.

5. Inspect Electrical Systems
As one of the building inspections mentioned in step number two, churches should have a licensed contractor inspect the facility’s electrical system on an annual basis to make sure it is safe and functioning properly. This inspection is important for all facilities and essential if a building is 20 or more years old. Taking this step can help prevent a costly fire.

6. Use the “5 Ls” of Crime Prevention
Without sufficient security, churches are more vulnerable to theft, burglary, vandalism, arson and other crimes today than ever before. While having a central security and fire alarm system with video security camera is ideal, not every church can afford the equipment. Still, churches can practice security measures at little or no cost by following the “5 Ls” of crime prevention: • Lock up — Keep all doors and windows locked when the building is unoccupied.
• Lighting — Illuminate the exterior of buildings and keep interior lights on overnight.
• Landscaping — Keep shrubs and trees trimmed around windows and doors to eliminate hiding places.
• Lookout — Establish a Church Watch program in which members volunteer to drive through the property at various times throughout the week and alert police to anything suspicious.
• Law Enforcement — Develop a close working relationship with local police.

7. Install Surge Protection
Electrical power surges caused by lightning strikes and other problems can destroy expensive electrical equipment and systems throughout the church. The risks of power surges can be minimized by utilizing proper electrical grounding and surge protection devices. The power company or an electrician can add a surge protection device to the church’s electrical system and individual surge protectors can be connected to appropriate equipment.

8. Plan and Properly Supervise Recreational Activities
If the proper precautions are not taken for recreational activities, a serious injury could occur and result in a liability lawsuit against the church. Therefore, churches should plan ahead for all recreational activities and supervise them properly. This includes selecting locations, equipment and activities that are age-appropriate and safe. For recreational or off-site youth activities, completed forms should be required, such as a parental consent and hold harmless form, health history form and emergency contact information. At a minimum, two unrelated adults should supervise every youth group and one adult should have First Aid training. The number of supervisors needed will depend on the age of the participants and the risk level of the activity. Supervisors should carry mobile phones and be ready to suspend any activity if conditions or circumstances become dangerous.

9. Screen Workers and Volunteers Who Work With Children
One of the most effective ways to prevent sexual misconduct is by carefully screening all church employees and volunteers — especially those who will work with children. To begin screening, candidates should fill out an application, provide at least two references from organizations where the person has worked or volunteered with children in the past, and sign a release form that allows the church to conduct a criminal background search. References also should be checked thoroughly. In addition, churches should require volunteers to be active in the church for at least six months before working with children. This will provide an added deterrent to child molesters.

10. Hire Competent and Insured Contractors
In certain situations, it may be fine to use volunteers for small building projects and maintenance. For most projects, however, it is best if the church hires qualified, professional contractors. Potential contractors should be interviewed and have their references checked. They also should carry liability, workers’ compensation and excess (umbrella) insurance with limits equal to or greater than the church’s policy. Other requirements should include a written hold harmless agreement with the contractor to hold the church harmless. Plus, the contractor(s) should add the church as an additional insured on their insurance policies and provide the church with proof they have done so. Finally, contractors should be paid as work is completed, versus paying up front.