Richmond Alarm News Blog

Every property is different when it comes to security needs, but churches and places of worship, present special challenges. Congregations want to be welcoming of all visitors and show trust in current members while at the same time being responsible about protecting their property and staff. According to Security World News, churches suffered $24 Million in property losses in 2009. Churches are often seen as safe places by members; however burglars often view them as “soft” targets due to the trusting nature of congregations.

Security Solutions for Churches

Often when a congregation gets a new security system, members quickly become frustrated by false alarms and police dispatches. It is difficult to educate such a large group of people on how to handle a new system. It is also difficult to determine who should have access to the new security system. In most cases, to help prevent false alarms, it may be best to start by putting intrusion systems on the areas of the church that contain the most commonly stolen (ie valuable) assets.

Commonly stolen property from churches

• Audio Visual Equipment
• Musical Instruments (guitars, drums, keyboards)
• Laptops and Office Electronics
• Cash from the Offering

Richmond Alarm recommends the following security for churches:

1. Designate 1 or 2 main entry points to the church. Change the locks on all other doors because it is nearly impossible to track all the keys that have been floating around. Keep all other doors securely locked and only accessible by essential personnel (such as the maintenance superintendent and pastor)


2. Put access control on the main entry points and use keycards to control who may enter. This provides a record of who enters, and also allows for a person’s access to be removed if necessary.  Periodic purging of the system will also help to maintain an up to date database of who has/needs access to the facility.  This is a huge advantage over traditional lock an key security.


3. Use a safe to store the offering or other money held in the facility


4. Install an electronic security system in the office and audio visual (AV) areas such as the sanctuary or high-tech meeting rooms. Keep instruments and sound equipment locked in the areas protected by the electronic intrusion security.


5. Take advantage of the auto arm and auto disarm features of the security system to help prevent someone from forgetting to arm systems and leaving the facility unprotected.

Contact Richmond Alarm Company for a free security system evaluation and estimate 804-276-9259.