ChurchSafety

Wanted:  Youth ministry program that includes fellowship, adventure and risk. These same characteristics that attract youths to your ministry programs may be keeping your youth minister awake at night. Learn how to operate a safe youth ministry and manage high risk activities with our simple tips.

• Permission granted. Require parental permission in writing for any participant who is a minor.  Be sure to include the nature of the event and any potential hazards involved.
  
  
• "Weather" to go. Establish clear guidelines defining the weather conditions that will require an outdoor event be cancelled.  Youth leaders will be more likely to make the right call if there is a clear policy regarding weather-related cancellations.
  
  
• Take your seat.  When travel is part of your game plan, make sure everyone takes a seat and stays in it.  Insist that all passengers wear seat belts and follow guidelines for vehicle operation, particularly restrictions for 15-passenger vans.
  
  

• Trust your instincts. If a planned activity goes against your better judgment, don't do it. Bounce new ideas off someone not involved in your ministry to get an outsider's perspective. You may be too close to the idea to properly evaluate the risks.
  
  
• Bring a friend.  Avoid one-on-one encounters for any activities.  Protect your group and your ministry leaders from risky situations.
  
  
• Call your agent. Discuss your activity schedule with your insurance agent well in advance of the events.  You agent can help you determine your coverage and whether any changes need to be made to your policy based on your plans.
  
  

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