Until recently, matters of faith and security were rarely mentioned together in the same discussion. Churches, synagogues, temples, and mosques were accepted as open and inviting places intended to meet the spiritual needs of their members and visitors. Times have changed. Since 2012, the nation has led in a Wisconsin Sikh temple and 26 slain during Sunday services in a Texas church, and recently 11 died in an attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue. These are only a few headlines of recent fatal events at a house of worship. Frequent burglaries, hateful graffiti, and local threats of violence are often not reflected in national reporting. No one would suggest houses of worship be secured like a prison. Maybe it’s time they model their security after K-12 schools, another institution requiring a certain amount of public accessibility.
Change Routines
Routines must change to provide security. Doors to offices and sanctuaries can no longer be left unlocked. Mechanical locks need to be replaced, as keys are too easy to copy. A single entry should be designated specifically for employees and volunteers. A basic access control system from one entry would allow them to enter by punching a PIN into a reader located outside the door. Installing a video intercom will enable houses of worship to monitor visitors and vendors. Mount a door station at the main entry and a master station on a receptionist’s desk to let staff see and talk with visitors before remotely unlocking the door. Audio intercoms can link offices, meeting rooms, and other areas to share routine or emergency messages. The presence of security cameras often deters criminals, so don’t try to hide them. Install them in the parking lot, facility perimeter, main entry, and inside the sanctuary and offices. Look for network-based cameras that can share live video with first responders during an emergency. Recorded video helps law enforcement identify vandals and burglars.
The Congregation Can Help
Get the congregation involved by helping spruce up the landscaping. Criminals use overgrown trees and bushes to hide themselves and weapons. Keep the parking lot, perimeters, and entry areas well-lit at night. Many law enforcement agencies are happy to help houses of worship work on lockdown or evacuation plans. Create one and have the entire congregation practice regular drills. Finally, consider hiring security guards for services, weddings, and funerals when more people are present, and doors are kept open. It’s unfortunate that houses of worship need to be concerned with security. But it’s the new reality. Got questions about video intercoms? The new IX Series 2 offers the power of an Enterprise platform with the simplicity of a single system. It expands your network across multiple security layers for one very powerful solution. Read more about the IX Series 2, or request a demo.
