A. Every school must make its own determination whether circumstances exist that warrant an armed security team.
Before you make weapons part of your school security plan, check with a local attorney to determine what laws apply to schools in your state.
If you decide that armed guards are needed, we recommend that you use current or former law enforcement officers or weapons-trained security firms. These professionals:
Receive hours of weapons training each year.
Are trained to deal with unruly, violent or mentally unstable people.
Are more likely to respond appropriately under stressful conditions that involve life-or-death decisions.
Finding a Security Guard
Hiring an outside security firm is an option, especially if there are no trained law enforcement personnel affiliated with your church.
A security consultant can help you assess your ministry's security risks. Ask for recommendations from your local police agency, school system, area businesses or other churches, and always check the consultant's credentials and references before making a decision.
Published 2020
The information we provide is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. Accordingly, no attorney/client relationship is created through this process, and no legal advice will be provided. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.
