What are some things to consider regarding first aid? While your church may not be fully occupied at the moment, an emergency or injury can happen to anyone at any time. A child could trip and scrape their knee on the pavement while playing with friends, an elderly parishioner may fall out of their chair, or a staff member could suffer a sudden heart attack. As churches begin to reopen, it's important to make sure that your staff is well-trained and properly equipped to handle most emergencies that could occur at your church, not only to save lives but to also help reduce any potential liability that your church may have. Before anyone requires first aid, an easy way to protect your congregation and staff is to make sure your church has liability insurance. Slips, trips, falls and other minor injuries can turn into major hassles with the wrong insurance or not enough coverage. When is the last time you reviewed your policies? First aid training It’s important that you not only have first aid kits available on your property and in your church vehicles but that you also train your staff on the right way to use these potentially lifesaving tools. Be sure to send various members – if not all – of your staff to first aid and CPR training. Once your staff is trained and comfortable administering first aid, it may be a good idea to require at least one first aid/CPR trained staff member to attend all events and outings that your church holds. Even during COVID, CPR may be needed to save a life, so the American Red Cross has provided some guidance on how to perform CPR while reducing the risk of spreading the virus. You can read about that here . Not sure where to look for first aid training? Use this tool created by the American Red Cross to help find first aid classes in your area. What should I include in my first aid kit? Your staff members can have all the training in the world, but it’s useless if they don’t have the tools needed to do their job. Having a first aid kit is vital to the safety of the staff and visitors in your buildings and vehicles. It’s often easier to purchase a preassembled first aid kit that you can find online or in-store, but you may also choose to assemble your own first aid kit instead.  Regardless of whether you purchase a first aid kid or create one yourself, there are several basic supplies that are generally recommended to include in your kit (but always consider specific hazards for your church that may require additional items). Make sure that you have the following items to help ensure you’re prepared for most common emergencies: Adhesive tape Antibiotic ointment Anti-itch treatment Antihistamine Aspirin Bandages (various sizes and uses) Blanket Burn ointment CPR mask Cold packs Cotton balls and swabs Disposable gloves (preferably latex free) Duct tape Elastic wraps Eyewash solution First aid manual Gauze pads / rolls Hand sanitizer Hydrogen peroxide Masks Pain relievers (various) Petroleum jelly Safety pins Scissors Splint Thermometer Triangular bandages Tweezers Questions? When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

What’s New with UMIP? A New Year, A New UMIP! A new year means new adventures, new resolutions, and new beginnings. While you’re focusing on becoming the new and improved “you,” we’re busy working on making the United Methodist Insurance Program (UMIP) even better than before. We encourage everyone to become familiar with our enhancements. This year we’re introducing new ways to help your church. Whether you’ve partnered with us in the past or are brand new to our program, here are just a few of the great benefits currently offered by the United Methodist Insurance Program: New Ways to Save: Top-Tier Carriers: UMIP has added several new insurance carriers to our already robust network of top-tier carriers. What does this mean for you? It means that we have even more opportunities to help find you the best possible price when quoting you. Tailored Coverage Options: We continue to improve the coverage options. The UMIP has tailored coverage options designed so you can select what best meets the needs of your church. New Ways to Interact: More risk management resources: As a subscriber to the Church Protection Connection , you are familiar with the risk management resources available to you. If you’re not familiar, be sure to take a look at some of the resources we‘ve created throughout 2020. In the coming year, we’ll have more to help you protect your ministry. Reignited Social Media: This past fall, we began a revival of our social media efforts on Facebook. On the UMIP's Facebook page, we’ve been sharing important insurance information and risk management resources to further the discussion around church insurance. If you haven’t done so already, be sure to  like our Facebook page  and join the 1,200+ friends of the UMIP, to learn more about protecting your ministry. Continued Outstanding Customer Service: Offering savings and resources go hand-in-hand with outstanding customer service to our UMIP customers. After each phone call, surveys revealed that in 2020 we regularly maintained an average customer satisfaction rating of 99%. That’s because we are committed to serving you. These enhancements are just a few of the ways that we’ve been working to strengthen the United Methodist Insurance Program for our customers. We hope that you find these new improvements valuable. To us, you are more than just an insurance customer. You’re a part of a group that’s designed for United Methodists by United Methodists. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

When the subject of church security is raised, it is common to think in terms of the critical need to help protect the lives of members and guests from armed intruders. However, security also involves protection of property and the need to effectively respond to medical emergencies. These events may make less headlines, but they are much more likely to occur at your church than an active shooter event. Here are some things to consider as you develop a program or review your current security measures: Start a security team. Ideally, your team will include people with some law enforcement or security experience and some with medical or first aid training. Larger congregations may have two separate teams that work and train together to respond to events in the church. Develop a plan. There are many resources available to you through your insurance company, government, non-profit organizations, and even the internet. Your plan should be simple, it should be shared with and understood by team members, and training and constant review and updating should be part of the process. UMIP has recorded webinars on church security, active shooter response, and suicide prevention as well as other helpful articles on related topics . Make sure you have prevention measures. Property security includes measures to help prevent burglary, fire prevention and mitigation, and the use of water leak and freeze detectors. For these measures to be effective, it is important to remember that devices must be kept in working order, turned on, monitored, and someone should be designated to respond to alerts. Plan for first aid emergencies. Responding to medical emergencies is important for all congregations, especially those with a number of older members. Having proper training and equipment in place may be the difference between life and death. Each church should have proper first aid materials and automatic external defibrillators in visible, accessible locations. Security team members and other volunteers should be trained in CPR, first aid, and how to use external defibrillators. Know how to handle an active intruder/shooter. Intruder and active shooter response is a challenging issue. UMIP’s webinar with Strategos International is a good place to start to educate you on appropriate preparation and response and can be found at our website, www.uminsure.org/video-resources . Establishing a welcoming atmosphere and having a vigilant and observant team are essential components. Defusing situations before they escalate may not always be possible, but it is a good first line of defense. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online .

Did you know your ministry could have a major liability risk even if you have property and casualty coverage? Some situations and emergencies might not be covered under traditional insurance plans. UMIP wants to increase your ministry’s peace of mind by helping you understand special coverages and products. Boiler and Machinery Uh oh! You’ve arrived at church Sunday morning and discovered your heat is out. What do you do? Repairing or replacing your boiler may not be covered under your insurance policy and your ministry could be liable for those expenses. Boiler and machinery coverage helps ministries cover the costs associated with equipment failure and malfunctions. Other large equipment like an elevator or certain office equipment may need extra coverage as well and could be covered under this type of policy. Terrorism The threat of hate-inspired violence is ever-present in our world and religious organizations are not immune. Recent spikes in domestic and foreign terrorism highlight the need for your ministry to be covered against catastrophic loss that could occur from senseless violence. Due to the extreme circumstances surrounding these types of events, many property and casualty policies do not cover these emergencies. Terrorism coverage can help your ministry recover in the unfortunate case of acts of terror. Sexual Misconduct We pray your ministry is never faced with the emotional and financial burden of an incident of sexual misconduct. With that prayer, we want to help you understand the importance of sexual misconduct coverage. Sexual misconduct policies are designed to help your ministry with the financial responsibilities your ministry could incur in a sexual misconduct incident. Your ministry should have policies and procedures to help limit the opportunities for misconduct, as well as a comprehensive response plan. Pairing those protocols with a sexual misconduct policy can assist you in protecting your ministry and its members. Directors and Officers Liability/ Management Liability Your leadership and personnel act as agents of your ministry. Director and Officers (D&O) liability coverage can assist your ministry with costs associated with defending or settling claims of wrongful acts if sued by staff, visitors, or members. This type of coverage is expected from many professionals and management personnel as it can help protect them, and typically, their spouses, if personally sued regarding acts performed as representatives of your ministry. Errors and Omissions As believers in our faith, we understand that humans are imperfect. Mistakes happen, but will your ministry be covered? Errors and Omissions coverage assists your ministry in covering the court costs and settlements associated with this kind of liability. Claims of negligence can severely hinder your ministry’s ability to service your mission field. Don’t let an innocent mistake cripple your ministry. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, your ministry may be planning on opening its doors to celebrate a variety of holiday events. It’s important to make sure you’re taking the appropriate precautions to help reduce the amount of risk to your ministry.  Below are some precautions that your ministry should consider taking to help keep your staff, congregants, and buildings safe during a busy holiday season. Practice Social Distancing If you’re holding in-person gatherings, it’s important to remember that you should socially distance to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the flu, and other infectious diseases among your visitors and staff. Place six-feet-apart markings in hallways to encourage distancing while waiting in line. Isolate chairs and tables six feet or more apart from each other.  As always, be sure to be informed about and follow any applicable local, state, or national guidelines regarding the size of social gatherings. Maintain Coverage The end of the year means expiring insurance policies for many organizations. It’s important to check when your policy is expiring and have a plan in place to renew it. Avoiding a lapse in your coverage helps ensure that your ministry remains protected if a covered accident occurs this holiday season. Help avoid costly financial and legal difficulties by ensuring you have the proper coverage in the case of a covered accident. Is your insurance coverage expiring soon? Has your coverage lapsed? Find out if your ministry has proper coverage going into the new year. Candle Safety Candle lighting ceremonies are a common occurrence during the holiday season. If your church is planning on holding a candle lighting ceremony this year, make sure you’re prepared in case of an accidental fire. Avoid placing candles near areas of high foot traffic, and only place candle stands on non-flammable material like tile or stone or on top of a fire-resistant mat if placed on carpet. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire. Remove Snow and Ice As we move closer and closer to 2021, temperatures will begin to drop lower and lower. That means for some areas, snow and ice will begin to accumulate. Make sure that you’re removing snow from parking lots and walkways and using salt/deicer to melt ice and prohibit its hardening. Placing slip-proof rugs near entryways can also reduce the chance of slippery floors caused by wet shoes. REQUEST A FREE INSURANCE QUOTE Additional questions? When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

Cost Cutting Through Insurance Is Not a Good Idea The impact of COVID-19 has been felt far and wide. From governments and Fortune 500 companies to your favorite restaurant or local business, we’ve all felt the repercussions of it. Your ministry is probably no different. During these difficult times, you may be forced to make tough decisions regarding your church’s future — whether or not you should reopen and if so, when, how you’ll keep staff and congregants safe, and if you need to cut costs to keep the lights on. While we can’t make those decisions for you, we can provide you with information to consider as you make an informed choice regarding your insurance coverage. Here’s a breakdown on why cost-cutting through insurance usually isn’t a good idea: Your church still needs protection. Even though the frequency of visitors may have decreased since COVID-19 began, there is still the chance for someone to be injured in an accident on property or property damaged through vandalism, theft or other incidents. Retaining coverage can help ensure that your church is protected from potential liabilities. Included in these liabilities are out of pocket costs.  If you decide to cut your coverage or lower your limits to reduce costs, your ministry could be left paying out of pocket if an accident or emergency occurs. Any losses that aren’t covered, or any damages or lawsuits that exceed the liability limit, will leave you footing the bill. Helpful alternatives to reducing your insurance coverage: Reviewing your insurance needs.  It’s always a good idea to regularly review your insurance coverage to verify that you’re adequately protected.  A review not only ensures that you have enough coverage in case of an emergency, but assures you’re not paying for things you no longer need. Have you recently stopped using a vehicle that was previously covered by your plan? Has your church reduced the size of its staff? Did you sell off a property or dispose of a high-value item such as a pipe organ? These are examples of things that can reduce the cost of your premium. Reduce risk.  It’s no surprise that insurance companies are risk-averse. By implementing a safety plan and training your staff, you help your insurance provider build confidence in you and show that you’re better prepared for an emergency. This can potentially lead to reduced premiums in the future. In these uncertain times, everyone must remain safe, and your church is no different. You may be tempted to cut your insurance to save money, but as a result, you can ultimately expose your ministry to unnecessary risk or liability if something happens. Instead, look for alternative ways to reduce your costs to help make sure you remain protected. Additional questions? When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

Your commercial property insurance is an incredibly important tool in helping to ensure the safety and continuity of your church in the event of a loss. It is important that you understand how the valuation of your property is calculated, as your valuation will impact the reimbursement you receive if you should need to file a claim.  ​ There are many items that are taken into consideration when calculating property valuations, including square footage, date of construction and building materials, as well as unique details such as stained glass or in-built pipe organs. Current building codes are also taken into account, so it is important that your insurance carrier knows of any updates you have made to your roof, electrical and HVAC systems.   ​ Insurance carriers will take these items into account when determining your property valuations, and may offer one of two different scenarios—replacement cost value, or actual cash value. Replacement cost value covers the cost to repair or replace a building using the same or comparable materials with which it was built originally, replacing an old building with a brand new one. Actual cash value, on the other hand, still allows for you to complete repairs or rebuild damaged buildings, but it takes into account the depreciation in your building over time, meaning that while the policy may cost less, the payout you receive for your claim could be less, as well.  ​ Let’s consider, for example, a church valued at $500,000 that is destroyed by a fire. If that church was insured at replacement cost value, their insurance premiums would be higher, but their claim would be covered at the full $500,000. If that same church was insured at actual cash value, their insurance premiums would be lower, but they would only receive the actual cash value of the depreciated building, which could be substantially less.   ​ It is important to note that valuations are not based upon market value, which is the estimated amount for which a building would sell on the date it was valued. A church may sell for $500,000 on the market today, but the replacement cost value may be higher or lower than that when you take into account the cost of the labor and materials needed to complete the repairs. Be sure to review your policy to determine how your church was valued, as it will have an impact on the amount of money you may receive for a claim should one arise in the future. Remember that insuring your property at actual cash value may result in lower premiums, but may also provide less relief when faced with a devastating loss. Your church buildings provide a sanctuary for your parishioners—make sure it is protected!   ​ When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

Wildfires are ravishing the State of California. According to the California State government officials, roughly 9,200 buildings and facilities have burned in 2020. But wildfires aren’t the only potential fire hazard for ministries across the connection. As we pray for those affected by these tragic events, you can help your ministry defend against a fire emergency.  Inspect your fire safety system One of the most important resources in your defense against a fire emergency is the fire protection system for your facility.  Sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and other fire protection tools should be inspected and tested for proper functionality. Your local fire department may help you understand and schedule fire system testing. Be sure to properly document and store all inspection documentation in a secure location. Check your facility’s electrical wiring The fire at the Cathedral of Notre Dame is believed to have started because of an electrical fire, causing millions of dollars in damage. Help protect your ministry's facilities by having  wiring and electrical systems inspected. This is particularly important for older buildings and buildings with “knob-and-tube” or other outdated wiring setups. Even for newer buildings, scheduling regular inspections can help you prevent fire due to faulty wiring. Also, visually inspect any power cables, extension cords, and surge protectors for visible corrosion and replace them when necessary. Be proactive about your fire prevention Limit the opportunities for mistakes and accidents by keeping flammable products like gasoline and cleaning agents in clean and secure locations. Any type of fire accelerant should have a proper label and be kept away from any open flames. If your facility has a kitchen, keep your vent hoods and appliances clear of debris that could catch fire. Inspect all wall sockets in your kitchen area and wiring for erosion and repair or replace any faulty sockets.  Develop a fire emergency plan Hope for the best and prepare for the worst is the philosophy here. Your ministry leadership team should develop, test, and implement a fire emergency evacuation plan. This plan will help your ministry respond appropriately in an emergency. Supplement this plan with preplanned fire drills and ensure exits are properly labeled and clear. Review this plan yearly and consult local fire officials for updates and plan improvements. This is also a great opportunity to test your emergency notification system for your staff, volunteers, and members. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

Summer 2020 will be one that we will never forget. Let this summer be the summer of planning, protecting, and restoring your church’s facilities. As your church begins to reopen, you have a perfect opportunity to perform general maintenance and repairs to protect your members and visitors. OUTSIDE The hot summer sun can do a number on your building’s exterior. Observe the exterior of your building and take note of any peeling paint or exterior area in need of repair. Also, inspect exterior and emergency lighting to ensure your building is properly lit during evening hours. Clear debris from any gutters and storm drains to allow proper water flow and drainage during storms. Doing this, along with securing any loose materials or siding will help prepare your building for any summer weather events that have potential to damage to your facility. Windows and doors are popular areas for leaks and cracks. Carefully look over these areas for cracks in the seal around the frames or the frames themselves. This will help reduce utility costs as well by keeping cool air in and warm air out. INSIDE ​ When it is warm outside, make sure your members and visitors are comfortable inside. If you haven’t already, have a certified HVAC professional check and repair your heating and air conditioning system. Taking care of this system now will help your church have a joy and spirit-filled reopening. This will also assist in providing proper circulation in the building. During this time of extended vacancy, review your church's emergency evacuation and weather emergency plans. Conduct simulated walkthroughs and make repairs to any areas that could be hazardous to individuals needing to exit or relocate within the building during an emergency. Partnering with your local fire department will help give you access to the expertise you need to make the most appropriate plans for your church. Adjust your plans based on their recommendations and present any changes to ministry leadership. ​ PLANNING ​After conducting an internal and exterior check meeting with your building facility team and church leadership to outline a plan of repair. Whether that is contacting contractors to conduct repairs or scheduling a time for a small group to perform routine maintenance, preparing and executing a maintenance plan will help your ministry be good stewards of the resources God has provided you with. Also, form a plan for continued monitoring of your ministry’s facilities. Follow your ministry's record-keeping policies and practices to properly document and store this information. Review previous maintenance reports to identify trends or problem areas that may need more permanent solutions. ​ When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

Many churches have found new and creative ways to worship together. Drive-in worship experiences have become a safer alternative to in-person gatherings. There are things your ministry can do to help protect itself and your attendees during these types of events. Health Guidelines As you plan for any type of in-person event or gathering, it is important to follow local and state gathering guidelines. Some states and counties may have stay-at-home orders that do not allow for a drive-in worship service. Also, your ministry should encourage staff and attendees to follow CDC guidelines like social distancing and wearing face masks. Develop Worship Guidelines Developing a digital graphic or info sheet that outlines the steps to participate in a drive-in worship service will help your attendees enjoy the worship experience from their car. Be sure to include instructions for entering and leaving the parking area. If an attendee must exit their vehicle, include instructions to inform ministry staff and maintain social distancing. Make sure your support staff is visible, alert, and properly protected with PPE provisions in case of an emergency. Make Sure Everyone Can Hear Your ministry can either live stream your service and have attendees connect their device to their vehicle or broadcast through an FM Radio. The FCC provides guidelines for low-power radio usage. Your service could also be projected through a portable PA system, but you must follow local noise ordinances and inform neighbors of your plans. It may be beneficial to inform local authorities as well to increase their awareness of the gathering. Maintain Safety Equipment Keep gloves, additional masks, a first aid kit, a defibrillator, a fire extinguisher, and other emergency equipment handy. Although your attendees will be in their vehicles, you never know when an incident may happen. It’s better to be prepared than searching in a quick response situation. Additional Layers of Protection Talk with your insurance agent about your drive-in worship plans. They will be able to inform you about other potential risks that may not be covered in your current package. You may need to add special coverages to protect your ministry and attendees while attending the service. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

It's spring cleaning time! Even though you may not have as much traffic as you normally would or have been vacant for an extended period of time, there are things you can do to maintain and improve your ministry facilities. Exterior Cleaning Taking time to care for your ministry’s exterior appearance will help your ministry maintain a positive presence in your community. Schedule time to power wash your siding and walkways. Repair any cracked windows or broken screens. You can be diligent in preventing foundation issues due to improper water flow by cleaning your gutter and drainage systems. You may need to hire a professional to conduct this work and to clear any debris from your building’s roof. Replace any exterior lights that may be dim or burned out. Perform general maintenance on any landscaping or summer equipment that you have and properly store away winter equipment. Interior Cleaning Make sure the interior of your facility matches the beautiful exterior. Take inventory of the cleaning supplies your ministry has and purchase any products that may be low to help ensure you are fully stocked. Clean any windows or glass and check for drafts or cracks in any seals. This could also be a great opportunity to clean and polish your church pews or seating. Repair any equipment that may be out of order. Remove any clutter and clearly mark areas for social distancing guidance to help maintain a safe environment. Dusting your curtains and deep cleaning rugs or carpets in your facility can help restore the glamour of your building. Deep Cleaning As we continue to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, your ministry can do its part by providing a safer facility for your members. The CDC has released new surface cleaning guidelines that your ministry can use in deep cleaning and disinfecting its building. While foot traffic is low or reduced, you should consider taking advantage of this opportunity to thoroughly clean and disinfect contact surfaces in your buildings.. When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.

When should I prepare for storms? In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, churches are focusing many of their efforts on how to address the challenging issues related to this changing situation.  The health and safety of others is, of course, a primary concern.  Also of great importance is how to continue to safely and effectively manage church properties since safer-at-home orders are widely still in effect.  One factor to remember that relates to managing your church property is that storm season is upon us.  If you have yet to prepare your church for spring or summer storms, it is important to take steps to help protect your property. Here are some things to consider : Act now - It is impossible to predict with exact accuracy when storms will occur, but in many parts of the country, storm season is already underway.  May can be a peak month for storm activity in those states typically affected by wind and tornadoes.  Hurricane season usually runs from June-November and wildfire hazards can be frequent during the dry months of summer.  All of this means that you should act quickly to help prepare your property for potential risks when it is reasonably safe to do so.  However, be sure to continue to follow COVID-19 related orders as you carry out this preparation. Geography matters - Again, it is important to understand and prepare for the storm challenges that are typical for your church’s location.  However, severe weather patterns have been drastically changing in past years and storms can occur at any time.  Try to prepare for both the expected and the unexpected. Evaluate your property - Once you have identified the person or team of individuals responsible for storm preparation, what should happen next?  You should evaluate your property.  Someone, preferably a person with a maintenance background, should regularly be reviewing property conditions.  This person should note if there are things like windows, siding, roofs, etc. that need to be replaced or repaired.  They should also notice if there are dead trees, limbs, etc. that should be removed from your grounds.  Proper upkeep of your property can help minimize damage that may occur as a result of a storm. Know your coverage- It is very important to understand what your property and casualty coverage entails and how it relates to potential storms.  Always keep a copy of your policy handy for quick reference and if you have questions on your coverage, contact your agent or carrier. Know your claims contact information- Just as you should always keep a copy of your insurance policy handy, you should also keep your claims contact information handy.  In the unfortunate event your property is damaged by a storm, being able to quickly access this information is important to report your incident. Despite the uncertain times with relation to COVID-19 and the general uncertainty surrounding weather patterns, there are ways you can help protect your church property during storm season. Questions on if your coverage is appropriate? When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. Churches have unique needs. As a part of the denomination, we understand the unique needs of United Methodist churches and their operations, which is reflected in our coverage options. Your ministry deserves outstanding insurance and UMIP works for you each day to help protect your church’s people, property, and finances. Let's talk! Contact us at 484-654-3380 or at UMI@sovinsurance.com . Or, click here to request a quote online . This content has been prepared by United Methodist Insurance Company (UMI) for informational purposes only. No article or document may accurately contemplate all possible scenarios or church resources. As such, this information is meant to foster discussion by the individual church and its members to develop a plan tailored to its own circumstances. UMI is providing this information with no warranties or guarantees of any kind and it should not be viewed as legal, financial, or other professional advice. All liability is expressly disclaimed. Any claim examples described herein are general in nature, may or may not be based on actual claims, and are for informational purposes only. Any coverage available for a claim is determined from the facts and circumstances of the claim as well as the terms and conditions of any applicable policy, including any exclusions or deductibles. In the event of a conflict with the content herein, the terms and conditions of any issued policy will control. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states. The commercial insurance coverages for United Methodist Insurance are sold and serviced directly or indirectly by Sovereign Insurance Agency (CA Lic. No. 0B01380) ("Sovereign") and underwritten by various available insurance markets. Sovereign pays United Methodist Insurance a royalty for the use of its intellectual property.