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Concealed Weapons at Church
Should we allow our security team to carry guns?

Richard R. Hammar responds in our Ask the Experts discussion.


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Question:
I am the Chief of Security for our church. Currently, in our Safety and Security Policy Manual, we have a firearms policy that specifically states that security team members are not authorized to carry a firearm unless they are a sworn police officer, reserve officer, or other law enforcement officer, such as working for the Department of Defense or Homeland Security.

We are considering revising this policy to possibly include allowing those members who have valid concealed carry permits to bring a firearm to church. They would be required to fulfill various field training hours, as well as other safety and training precautions. What are the pro and cons of implementing this revised policy?

Answer:
The question you ask is being raised more frequently in churches across America. Before you revise your policy, watch my video that addresses this same question—"Armed Vigilantes and Church Security." Additionally, I evaluate various security measures churches can take in an in-depth Feature Report titled, "Does Your Church Need a Security Guard?"

ChurchSafety.com downloads related to security:
Confronting Gun Violence at Church
Protecting Your Church from Crime and Violence



Posted: September 16, 2010
California security
  (Guest)
Your site is promoting having an attorney give advice on weapons in churches. You've got to be kidding me? How about asking some of the security experts (mostly active and retired police officers) for their advice.

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