This summer:
- A tri-state area church camp fell victim to a break-in. The criminals took appliances, including a double door refrigerator and kitchen utensils.
- A mentally disturbed man walked into a Henderson KY private school, screaming and was finally removed by police
- Vandals spray painted a church in downtown Evansville several times causing extra work and costs to the church.
It is a sad sign of the times that even our religious communities fall victim to this type of crime. Unfortunately, the peaceful nature of these worship centers, offer crooks an easy target for a burglary!
SECURITY SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR CHURCH
Protecting your buildings
When a burglary occurs, the loss to the church is not only a huge financial hardship, but emotionally stressful for the volunteers who work so hard to provide a safe, beautiful environment for parishioners and attendees. Many churches are not staffed all day. Most churches are empty at night. Having a monitored intrusion system protects your church from would-be thieves when your building is empty. A monthly fee is a small price to pay in preventing damages and loss that may include numerous amounts of irreplaceable memorabilia!
Access systems – beneficial to your church?
Have you ever had to track down that former member that still has a key? Can you confirm beyond a shadow of doubt that there are no unauthorized duplicate keys to your church floating around in the community? Do you have a daycare or a school in the church? An access system or “key less entry” may be the solution to all these problems. Consider these benefits:
- Limit the access to your building
- Eliminate the cost of re-keying or changing locks
- Allow only authorized access to critical areas
- Integrates with your security system for arming and disarming
- Online access allows for easy activation and deactivation of a key fob or access card.
- Build activity reports to show details including, who, time and location of each entry.
- Create schedules to allow users into the building on specified days and hours.
Cameras
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. IP cameras provide a deterrent to criminals because they know they will be caught on video. Powerful new technology offers users:
- The ability to log into a secured account on a computer or smart phone from a remote location to instantly view live footage.
- DVR equipment that can record clear detailed footage to give to law enforcement when necessary.
- Verified video monitoring which improves the ability to potentially catch criminals before they leave with church property.
Fire Systems
Facilities in Indiana, Kentucky or Illinois are mandated by law to have specific fire equipment depending on occupancy. Though the laws in each state differ slightly, one thing is certain: Fire codes are a very serious matter! Safety of everyone in the building is the highest priority. A fire marshal can shut down a facility without warning until all safety violations are resolved. Stiff fines can also be imposed on a violating facility. To be sure that your facility has the proper fire equipment and monitoring requirements, check with your local fire marshal.
Remember, foresight is less expensive than hindsight!
