🛑 The Top 10 Safety Risks Churches Overlook — And How to Fix Them
MSchedule Your Free Church Readiness Call Today!ost churches don’t ignore safety — they just don’t know what they’re missing.
At Palmetto Safe Solutions, we’ve worked with ministries of all sizes, and we consistently see the same blind spots. These overlooked risks aren’t dramatic — they’re subtle, everyday vulnerabilities that can lead to real harm if left unaddressed.
Here are the top 10 safety risks churches often miss — and how to fix them:
1. Unmarked Emergency Exits
Many churches have exits that are blocked, poorly lit, or not clearly labeled.
✅ Fix: Conduct a walkthrough and install proper signage and lighting.
2. No Medical Emergency Plan
If someone collapses during service, who responds? Who calls 911?
✅ Fix: Create a simple response protocol and train key volunteers.
3. Slippery Floors and Entryways
Rainy days + tile floors = a recipe for injury.
✅ Fix: Use non-slip mats and assign greeters to monitor entry areas.
4. No Child Safety Check-In System
Without a secure check-in/out process, children’s ministry is vulnerable.
✅ Fix: Implement a basic check-in system — even a paper log is better than nothing.
5. Volunteers Without Training
Good intentions aren’t enough in an emergency.
✅ Fix: Provide short, role-specific safety training for greeters, ushers, and team leads.
6. No Fire Evacuation Plan
If a fire breaks out, does your team know what to do?
✅ Fix: Map evacuation routes and run a simple drill once a year.
7. Poor Lighting in Parking Lots
Dark areas invite accidents and discourage attendance.
✅ Fix: Upgrade lighting or assign volunteers to monitor outdoor areas.
8. No Incident Reporting System
If something happens, is it documented?
✅ Fix: Use a simple form to record incidents and follow up appropriately.
9. Outdated Contact Info for Emergency Services
Churches often assume someone “knows who to call.”
✅ Fix: Post updated emergency numbers in key locations.
10. No Risk Assessment Process
Most churches don’t know what they don’t know.
✅ Fix: Use Palmetto Safe Solutions’ Risk Assessment Tool to get started.
Safety doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does have to be intentional.
Start with one fix this week. Your congregation will thank you.