Ensuring the security of houses of worship during the holiday season is paramount, as these venues often experience increased attendance, making them potential targets for acts of violence. Recent analyses underscore the importance of comprehensive security measures to protect congregants and staff.
Current Statistics and Trends
- Increase in Attacks: Between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022, there were 59 violent attacks targeting congregants, clergy, or staff at houses of worship in the U.S. Notably, 2023 saw a significant rise in such incidents, with an average of 77 attacks per month through November, and a sharp increase to 184 incidents in December—a 138% rise over the monthly average.
- Disproportionate Targeting: Protestant churches constitute 85% of U.S. houses of worship, but they account for 43% of reported incidents. Conversely, Jewish synagogues, representing only 3% of houses of worship, were targets in 32% of attacks, indicating a disproportionate targeting of minority religious groups.
Recommendations for Enhancing Security
- Prevention
Community Vigilance: Encourage congregants to adopt a See Something, Say Something approach and promptly report suspicious activities to authorities.
Threat Monitoring: Stay informed about local and national threat levels through collaboration with law enforcement. - Preparation
Security Assessments: Conduct thorough evaluations to identify vulnerabilities and implement tailored security measures, such as controlled access points and surveillance systems
Emergency Action Plans (EAPs): Develop and regularly update EAPs addressing various emergencies, including natural disasters and active shooter scenarios. Ensure all staff and volunteers are trained and conduct regular drills.
Training: Provide staff and volunteers with training on emergency response, including first aid and trauma care, to act effectively until professional help arrives.
Hire Additional Security During Service Hours: We have full- and part-time staff who can be onsite to deter or deal with any security issues, thus giving you peace of mind and allowing your congregants to focus on their time of worship. - Response
Immediate Action: Empower leaders to make quick decisions during an incident—run, hide, or fight. Training in critical trauma intervention can be lifesaving.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Establish strong relationships with local law enforcement agencies to ensure swift response and coordination during emergencies.
Additional Resources
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): This agency offers a comprehensive guide titled Mitigating Attacks on Houses of Worship, which provides strategies for developing security plans.
- Secure Community Network (SCN): This organization provides resources and training to enhance security within Jewish communities, which can be adapted for various faith-based organizations.
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Released physical security performance goals tailored to faith-based communities to enhance security posture
In light of the evolving threat landscape, houses of worship must adopt a proactive and comprehensive approach to security, ensuring a safe environment for all during the holiday season and beyond.
Assess and Train to be Ready
SACS Consulting & Investigative Services, Inc. can perform Physical Security and Vulnerability Assessments of your house of worship and train leaders, staff, and members to be ready for any security breach or life-threatening disaster. Don’t wait until something happens; prepare for the worst-case scenario and gain peace of mind. Contact us to speak with one of our security professionals today to discover how you can be proactive and save lives.