3 Critical Steps to a Church Emergency Response Plan

When news breaks about severe weather damage, a devastating shooting or other crisis, your community is in trouble. As a pastor, you’re called to serve those in need around you. But is your church ready to respond to an emergency? A three-step church emergency response plan can help guide you through a catastrophe.

Step 1: Prepare now.

You need a church emergency response team, resources and a game plan.

• Appoint team members. Give each member a clearly defined role – team leader, communications, first aid/medical attention, counseling, facility/building management, security, etc.
• Prepare resources. Make resources readily available, such as first aid kits, blankets, a generator, forms to track people you house, etc.
• Develop an emergency game plan. Store it on- and off-site, and make sure your team members have access to it and know when to act.

Step 2: Practice executing your plan.

There are many types of emergencies, and all situations require unique responses. Practice beforehand to help your team feel confident about responding in the moment.

• Schedule dedicated team meetings and require attendance from all key members.
• Train your team and explain how the plan works in various circumstances (e.g., a shooting, tornado or winter storm).
• Use role play to simulate different scenarios and familiarize the team with the appropriate responses.

Step 3: Review and adjust.

Team member availability, resources, techniques and threats evolve over time. That’s why it’s important to re-evaluate your church emergency response plan every year.

• Refresh your policies to include the most up-to-date resources and best practices.
• Replace team members as needed based on availability and skill sets.
• Address new threats to your ministry.

In Emergencies and Times of Tranquility — We’re with You in Every Season of Ministry

Preparing a church emergency response plan is one of the many ways to help your ministry advance the Kingdom of God. At GuideStone^®, we’re here to help you mitigate risks in every season of ministry. For more information, contact us at InsuranceSolutions@GuideStone.org or (214) 720-2868 Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT and Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice. Readers should use this article as a tool, along with best judgment and any terms or conditions that apply, to determine appropriate policies and procedures for your church's risk management program.