Active Shooter Preparedness in Your Church

Understanding the Threat

Most attackers give warnings. Watch for social media posts praising past shooters, unexplained stockpiling of weapons, or vague threats like “stay away from church this Sunday.” If something feels wrong, quietly alert a pastor or church leader right away. Early reporting has prevented attacks.

Your Simple Action Plan: Run, Hide, or Fight

When you hear gunshots or the alert sounds, skip denial and act immediately. Here’s exactly what that looks like inside a church.

Run – Get Out Fast (Best Choice if You Can)

If shots start near the back of the sanctuary, head straight for the nearest side exit or fellowship hall door. Leave your Bible, purse, and everything else. Help the person next to you only if it doesn’t slow you down.

Hide – Lock Down and Stay Quiet

If running isn’t safe, move quickly into a classroom, nursery, or bathroom. Lock the door, turn off lights, silence phones, and barricade with chairs or tables.

Fight – Only When You Have No Other Option

If the shooter enters your room and there’s no way out, commit 100%. Throw hymnals, chairs, or fire extinguishers. Attack together as a group from different sides.

Church-Specific Scenarios You Might Face

• During Sunday morning worship: Shooter enters from the back. Run to side exits or hide behind sturdy barriers if doors are blocked.

• In children’s ministry or nursery areas: Lock doors immediately and keep children quiet and low.

• During midweek Bible study in smaller rooms: Use tables to barricade doors and prepare improvised weapons.

• In the parking lot after service: Walk with others, stay alert, and have a plan to get in your car quickly.

• During fellowship events: Scatter toward multiple exits and use serving tables for cover.

  
  

Helping the Wounded Until Help Arrives

Once the immediate danger passes, stop severe bleeding with direct pressure or a belt as a tourniquet. Stay calm and stay with the injured. Call 911 only when you’re safe.

What You Can Do This Week

1. Walk your family through Run, Hide, Fight using your church’s actual building.

2. Ask your pastor about the church’s emergency plan and consider volunteering to help.

3. Practice identifying exits every time you attend.

   
   

The Importance of Preparedness

This isn’t about living in fear — it’s about loving your church family enough to be ready. These simple steps have worked in real churches, and they can work in yours too. If you have questions or want to help with safety planning, speak with your pastor or a church leader today.

Together, with faith and preparation, we can help keep our houses of worship safe. Remember, being prepared is not just a precaution; it's a responsibility. By taking these steps, you empower yourself and those around you.

Stay vigilant and proactive. Your safety and the safety of your community depend on it.