Preparation Resources for Churches

The following suggestions are based on the Connecting Neighbors course. We highly recommend churches register for the course. Visit our training page for more information.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance company for more information.

Congregational Records & Contact Information

Compile a list of contact information of the congregation and staff. Keep a physical copy with you in case you are unable to access information online or on church computer systems. Be sure to share the contact information with staff or leaders of the calling tree.

Download a contact card template.

Make sure to have copies of important documents, such as church records, archives, and church history, in case the documents are damaged in the storm. Consider purchasing waterproof file boxes to protect important information.

Communication Strategies & Responsibilities

Establish a communications plan for how the church will prepare and respond to a disaster. Make sure church staff members know their responsibilities for preparation and assessment. Create a calling tree to check on congregation members following a storm.

Worship Cancellation / Closure & Delays

Does the church have an alternative worship site available? Once a decision is made about closures or delays, whose responsibility is it to communicate to local TV and radio stations? If social media will be used, who is responsible for posting announcements? Make plans for in-church and out-church ministry programs during and after a disaster.

Church Property

Are evacuation plans in place and posted around the property? If people need to shelter in place, are those locations clearly identified? Who will help secure the church property? Who will assess the damage after a disaster? Report any damage to church property or parsonages to the District Superintendent and the District Disaster Response Coordinator.

Insurance

What does the church’s insurance cover? How soon do you need to file a claim? Talk with your insurance company to see what is covered, how to file storm damage claims properly, and what information will be needed.

Inventory

Take an inventory of the church to document items and their conditions. Brotherhood Mutual Property is a great resource to find inventory lists. Taking photos or videos of the condition of the church is also beneficial when filing insurance claims.