Emergency Plans Every Church Should Have

Estimated Read Time: 7 minutes

Core Procedures for Fire, Weather, and High-Risk Incidents

Disclaimer: The following story is fictional but based on real incidents and best practices gathered from ARM’s experience with churches. It is designed to illustrate the importance of having core emergency plans in place.

A Stormy Sabbath Wake-Up Call

The rain came harder than anyone expected. By the time the sermon began, the sky had darkened, and thunder shook the building. Suddenly, a volunteer rushed in to tell Pastor James that a severe weather alert had been issued—tornado activity was possible in their area.

As the safety team scrambled, it became clear they didn’t have a written procedure for severe weather. Some people suggested moving everyone to the fellowship hall, while others thought the sanctuary was safest. Confusion spread, and precious minutes were lost.

Thankfully, the storm passed with no damage, but Pastor James and Safety Officer Joni knew it could have ended differently. That day became the turning point for building formal, documented emergency plans.

Why Every Church Needs Core Plans

Emergencies rarely give warning, and confusion in the moment can put lives at risk. Having written, rehearsed procedures for common emergencies:

• Saves time when every second counts.
• Reduces panic and uncertainty.
• Ensures responsibilities are clear.
• Builds confidence among members and guests.

It’s also important to design your plans with all members in mind, including those with disabilities or limited mobility. Every drill should include strategies for assisting individuals who may require extra help.

The Four Core Emergency Plans

1. Fire Response Plan

Fires can start in a church building by accident, from faulty wiring, kitchen mishaps, or even a wildfire threat.

• Evacuation routes: Post clear maps in hallways and classrooms.
• Assembly points: Designate safe outdoor locations away from the building.
• Roles: Assign who will check restrooms, assist those with mobility needs, and ensure doors are closed behind evacuees.
• Equipment: Regularly inspect fire extinguishers and alarms.

Practical Insight: Conduct at least one fire drill annually—ideally during a time when the church is full, such as Sabbath morning.

2. Severe Weather Plan

Severe weather can strike quickly—lightning, high winds, tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, or flooding.

• Shelter locations: Identify interior rooms or hallways away from windows.
• Communication: Have a system for quickly notifying all occupants.
• Service adjustments: Be ready to pause or dismiss services early if needed.

Practical Insight: Keep weather radios or alerts active during events, and ensure more than one person knows how to interpret warnings.

3. Medical Emergency Plan

From minor injuries to life-threatening events, preparation is key.

• First aid responders: Identify trained individuals in your congregation.
• Equipment: Maintain stocked first aid kits and AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators).
• EMS contact: Assign someone to call 911 and direct responders to the scene.
• Documentation: Record the incident afterward for follow-up.

Practical Insight: Run short response drills with your team so they can act quickly under pressure.

4. High-Risk Incident Plans (Active Shooter & Missing Child)

While rare, these situations require a rapid and coordinated response.

• Active Shooter: Establish lockdown procedures, safe rooms, and communication methods with law enforcement.
• Missing Child: Have a clear system for alerting staff, securing exits, and searching systematically.
• Special Considerations: Plan for evacuations or lockdowns that include individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can be moved or sheltered quickly and safely.

Practical Insight: Practice these plans with sensitivity and discretion, focusing on team readiness without causing unnecessary alarm.
 

Making Plans Work in Real Life

Having a document isn’t enough—plans must be practiced, reviewed, and updated regularly. Involve ministry leaders and volunteers in drills, and teach your congregation what to expect. Over time, these drills should become part of your church’s culture, ensuring everyone is ready to respond to any emergency.

From Confusion to Confidence

The storm scare showed Pastor James and Joni that emergency planning isn’t optional—it’s essential. Now their church has clear, rehearsed procedures for fires, severe weather, medical incidents, and high-risk events like active shooter or missing child situations. The entire congregation knows their role, and safety is part of the church culture.

Next Step: Review your church’s current emergency plans. If you don’t have written procedures for these core emergencies—and others your location may face—start drafting them today and schedule your first drill within the next month.