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Church Safety Issues to Be Aware of

Whether you are talking about a business, a community center or a pool, every organization that offers services to the public must deal with its own set of safety issues. Churches are no different. If an accident occurs and someone is injured or killed, owners and operators of churches may be found personally liable or even charged with criminal negligence. This is just one reason why it is important to be aware of church safety issues. Always check the required safety regulations for your jurisdiction.

  1. Candles

    • Candles are common in the services of many denominations of Christianity. They provide a solemn and warm ambiance and their light symbolizes the truth all religions strive at. While some candles are tended by church workers, others may be held by parishioners for specific church services. In such cases, only allow the candle to burn for as long as required to complete the service. Do not let candles burn unnecessarily. Give clear instructions to the parishioners regarding how to safely light their candles and remind them to blow them out when the time comes.

    Exits

    • Like movie theaters and stadiums, churches usually take in a large influx of parishioners just before church services. When the service is complete, everyone leaves at once. Be sure your church has enough exists to accommodate the volume of service participants. Many churches have a floor plan shaped like a cross. In such a case, it would be prudent to have an exit at the back and one exit on each of the right and left sides of the building. Be sure to label the exits with visible signs.

    First Aid Kits

    • Like any community building, churches should be equipped with first aid kits containing bandages, gauze, disinfectant, scissors and a flashlight, among other items. Ideally, churches would be equipped with an easy-to-use defibrillator in the case of heart-related emergencies. Churches with many elderly parishioners should be especially aware of their first aid supplies.

    Storage

    • Churches typically store many items that are taken out and put away during the service. As members of the congregation may be helping with these tasks, it is important to store everything in a safe way. If possible, store everything at or below shoulder height so as to avoid injuries resulting from falling objects. If your church uses chairs instead of pews, be sure to stack them at a reasonable height so they will not topple over.

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