Most personal injuries that happen on church property are related to slips, trips, and falls. These incidents can be significantly reduced or prevented through continued care and maintenance of the facility. Considering the amount of traffic, time of year, and the physical considerations of people who use an area will help your church prioritize repairs and schedule maintenance. Exterior Walkways Sidewalks, gravel paths, or other exterior walkways can present a 24-hour tripping or falling hazard. These areas are used both by community members and church members and should be inspected on a regular basis. Make note of cracks, bulges, and other inconsistencies on the walking path and schedule needed repairs with your local government (if publicly owned) or contact a local contractor for repairs. Building Entrances Whether it is molding for a door frame or a sliding welcome mat, building entrances can provide a major hazard. If you use mats at any entrance, make sure they are water absorbent and non-slip. They should have beveled edges, be at least 3/8 of an inch thick, and be large enough not to curl or slide easily. If church finances permit, permanently-installed recessed mats are preferred. Thresholds or saddles within the doorways should be grooved and no more than 3/4 of an inch high and should slope at the edges to minimize tripping hazards. Using carpet on interior flooring of the church provides a significantly better slip-resistant surface than tile or wood flooring. Stairs Proper signage through your church facility will communicate important safety concerns to your church members. “Please Walk” and “Watch Your Step” signs make members and visitors aware of potentially dangerous areas. Stairs should be noted through the building and tread riser heights should be about seven inches and tread depths should be about 11 inches. Handrails should be on both sides of the steps and placed 34-38 inches above the enclosed steps. Treating stair surfaces with non-slip material will help secure the footing of individuals using your facilities. Also, all staircases should be adequately lit during operating hours. Housekeeping Even after taking all those precautions, there still will be the potential for some individuals to trip. Whether it is food dropped on the floor at the potluck, an extension cord, a coffee spill in the hallway, crayons, balls, toy trucks, etc. there simply is no way to completely prevent a fall. Monitoring floors during and after events to ensure that spills and debris are promptly cleaned and using proper signage and cleaning procedures will reduce the opportunity for an incident. Extension cords and other tripping hazards should be taped down and secured properly throughout the building as well. This time of social distancing is the perfect time to take care of these potential hazards as your church begins to reopen its facilities. Your church and church members will be safer for it. We can help secure your ministry's future through insurance protection. Request a quote today and let us help you plan, protect, and restore your church. 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.

Information about the Covid-19 outbreak is updated every day. UMIP wants to help you protect your people, property, and finances through this situation.  We have compiled a list of links to sites that can provide you with up-to-date information that will help you access resources for continuing your church’s operation and getting the latest information on insurance, your conference’s information, and ways to protect yourself and others. Visit  www.uminsure.org/covid19links  for more information. We will be updating this page often as more information becomes available.  General Council on Finance and Administration The General Council on Finance and Administration is committed to its customers and staff during this time. GCFA published videos and guides - on eGiving, Live Streaming, Congressional legislation related to Covid-19 like the CARES and Families First Coronavirus Response Act, and more - to help your ministry. State Departments of Insurance Your State Department of Insurance will provide the latest updates on how your insurance coverage may be affected by shutdowns. Check here to download a spreadsheet of links to state departments of insurance, where you can find the latest information on news about non-payment and cancellation grace periods for your state. Conference Websites Most conferences have websites with information for your church about their current actions and advice in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak. Check here to download a list of links to annual conference websites, where you can see what your conference has available. GENERAL INFORMATION Many sites have information available about the current outbreak and means to protect yourself and others from the spread of the virus. These sites have some of the best available information; for example, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has an FAQ section that is available in 12 languages. A few sites with helpful information: ​ Centers for Disease Control National Institute of Health WebMD University of Pittsburgh Medical Center FAQ Insurance Information Institute National Association of Insurance Commissioners T his 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 an active and thriving youth group, allowing them to minister to a younger generation and providing a safe and fun place for children and teens to enjoy fellowship and become stronger members of their congregation. These groups can be very valuable to your church’s ministry, and they should be protected. Here are a few insurance-related items to consider when thinking about your youth ministry. Background Screening Safety starts with your youth group leader. Whether your youth group is led by paid employees or volunteers, it is very important that you perform background checks on all staff working with your church’s younger members to help ensure that they do not have any prior incidents of misconduct toward minors. Be sure to engage a reputable background screening organization as you engage in this important work. Plan Events with Safety in Mind Occasionally, your church may plan larger-scale events for your youth group, like an overnight lock-in at the church or a carnival. Depending on the scope of your event, you may want to check with your insurance provider to ensure that the activity would be covered under the policy. Whenever you plan a youth event, you may want to ask participants to sign an activity participation agreement. The agreement should outline the activities included in the event, establish the rules associated with the event, and allow you to collect emergency contact information from your attendees. Ensure that all events are properly staffed to cover the activities taking place, and that the staff has easy access to first aid equipment in the event of an accident. Think About Transportation Some youth group activities take place off-site, with participants being transported in a church-owned vehicle. If your church owns such a vehicle, make sure it is properly insured, with all potential drivers listed on the policy. Keep your vehicle tuned-up and inspect it regularly to help ensure all seat belts and safety devices are in proper working order. Do not transport more passengers than your vehicle allows. Keep It Fun – and Safe Whatever your youth group is doing, providing a fun and safe environment is an important part of ensuring the enjoyment of everyone involved. If your youth group is meeting in one of your church’s outdoor spaces, be sure the area is free from debris and the surfaces are clear of any holes, cracks or obstacles that could lead to a slip, trip, or fall. Keep your playground equipment tuned up and replace any rusted or broken pieces. Your insurance agent or carrier can provide more information on how to help keep your property safe so that it can be enjoyed by all. With some care and forethought, it can be easy to provide a safe, enjoyable time for your youth group. If you are ever concerned about whether your youth group is properly covered, do not hesitate to reach out to your insurance agent, who can help you determine if your coverage is appropriate. For a free, no-obligation coverage assessment, speak with a dedicated representative today! 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.

If you’re not already a customer of UMIP, you may be wondering how to join our beneficial program. Below, we’ll break down who’s eligible to join UMIP and what are some of the great features to expect. So, who qualifies for UMIP? Since the United Methodist Insurance Program is the only program with direct ties to the denomination, and it focuses solely on serving United Methodists 100% of the time, only current United Methodist ministries and entities qualify for UMIP. Churches, hospitals, parsonages, recreation centers, and ancillary businesses are just a few of the different entities that qualify just for being a ministry of The United Methodist Church. What are some of the features and benefits of UMIP? Competitive pricing Expanded top-tier carrier network Tailored coverage Outstanding customer service Risk management resources Coverage that meets the minimum requirements set by the General Council on Finance and Administration Requotes available to reflect how your ministry currently operates Interested in being covered by UMIP? Click here to speak with one of our dedicated representatives to find out how you can get your free quote today. Products offered by UMIP: Property & Casualty Commercial auto Umbrella Cyber liability Sexual misconduct Terrorism Workers’ compensation Employment practices liability Professional liability (E&O) D&O Other coverages Peace of mind for your ministry When you are covered by UMIP, we will be there when you need us. 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! 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.

Outside of your people, your property is one of the most important assets of your ministry. It’s where you make disciples, where you serve your community, and where you express your faith. And in many instances, your property might be historically valuable as well, so it’s only right that you protect your property for future generations. Why should you protect your property? There are historical and organizational reasons you’d want to protect your property. The financial reasons alone are a good reason to make sure your property is protected in the event of an accident. Fires, storm damage, electrical malfunctions, and other unforeseen events can leave your ministry paying significant costs to repair or rebuild. Is your ministry protected? Request a free coverage assessment to gain peace of mind that your property is protected in the event of an accident. How do you protect your property? The first step to protecting your property is finding appropriate insurance coverage for your ministry. It can often be difficult to find coverage that fits your church, but thankfully, UMIP offers tailored coverage solutions designed to help protect churches just like yours . UMIP customers can have their coverage shopped with multiple top-tier insurance carriers to try to find the most affordable and appropriate coverage for your ministry. Beyond finding appropriate protection for your ministry, there are many things you can do to help reduce the risks your property faces. For example, you can trim branches before severe weather strikes, insulate your buildings before winter, install security systems, and consistently perform routine maintenance and repairs. These are just a few things you can do to help reduce your risk, but UMIP offers many different risk management resources that provide you with additional ways to mitigate risk. What kind of property can UMIP help protect? Church buildings Parsonages Playgrounds Associated pre-schools or daycares Food pantries Recreation centers Thrift stores/ancillary businesses Other church properties Contact our dedicated team of representatives to learn more about how UMIP can help protect your property or request a free quote today! 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 fair to say Ransomware attacks are on the rise. But ransomware is not a new issue. When I was with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), we provided guidance to the public in 2016 on this topic and it remains a critical issue. In 2019, I spoke at an InfoSec Conference in Las Vegas and my co-presenter, a retired FBI Agent working for a major intrusion response company, said ransomware was at epidemic proportions. I noticed a number of folks in the audience were rolling their eyes at his statement. To be honest, very few companies were taking the threat seriously. A common response was, “why would anyone want to target me?” I would hear this time and again from nonprofits and religious organizations. Make no mistake, cybercriminals do not care who you are or what kind of business you run. Even a church can be targeted. Here are a few examples of how severe the threat is: In 2021, the Cybercriminals targeted the Washington D.C. Police Department. To make matters worse, they claimed they would release some very sensitive information if their demands were not paid. This is not the first time the Cybercriminals made their point that if they can encrypt your data then they can also steal it. The Colonial Pipeline incident showed the Cybercriminals had the ability to shut down a major portion of our country’s critical infrastructure. The tools to commit these crimes are all available on the Dark Web. In May, JBS Foods, one of the biggest meat processing companies in the world, paid an $11 million ransom demand which is one of the largest ransomware payments of all time. Over the July 4th weekend, approximately 1,000 organizations around the world were affected by a ransomware attack on the U.S. information technology firm, Kaseya. The Cybercriminals realized that by attacking one organization, they can impact a large number of other companies. During my decades with the FBI, I discovered that by the time law enforcement is alerted of a Cybercrime/Ransomware incident, we cannot come to your organization and wave a magic wand to fix the problem. Since most of the Ransomware Gangs are located overseas, it is equally challenging to bring these evil-doers to justice. I know those two points can cause a lot of anxiety, however it's not hopeless. My big epiphany while I was with the FBI is the fact that a majority of Cybercrime incidents could have been prevented. Is ransomware prevention easy? The answer is no. However here is a quick list of steps you need to be taking to reduce your chances of becoming the next Ransomware victim. Realize phishing is the number one attack vector for the distribution of malware. You will get an email, a text message or even a Facebook message asking you to click on a link or open an attachment. You can get infected if you go to a questionable website or a website that has been infected with malicious code (This is called drive-by malware). Make sure your computer/smartphone/device is updated to the latest operating system and all applications are patched. Do not ignore your device when it says it needs to be updated. Reduce your attack surface on your device. Only allow trusted applications to run on your device. Beware of all those free software products that you never use. (This is called application whitelisting). Reduce admin rights for users. Admin rights allow users to install programs and malicious code. If your device asks you to enter your password to install or make changes to a program you need to be careful. Take an inventory of who you are allowing onto your network and what they can access. Does the employee from three years ago still have Admin rights to your network? You do not want every employee to access everything on your network. (Least privilege and access management) Use two factor authentication on all remote access to your network, especially remote desktop protocol (RDP). Backing up is not enough ... make sure you test your backups and have a good restoration plan. Remember, if your network is infected with ransomware there is a good chance the Cybercriminals have also stolen your data. Educate yourself and your employees about the dangers of Ransomware and Cybercrime. Contact your local FBI Office if you are a victim or go to WWW.IC3.GOV Finally, here is an excellent resource from the Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). This information from the FBI can be helpful as well to establish best practices to protect your ministry: About the Author: Our guest author is retired FBI agent Scott Augenbaum. In 2003, Scott was promoted to Supervisory Agent in FBI headquarters in the Cyber Division, Cyber Crime Fraud unit. He managed the FBI Cyber Crime Task Forcer Program and Intellectual Property Rights Program. In 2006, he transferred to Nashville and managed the FBI Memphis Division Computer Intrusion/Counterintelligence Squad. He is the author of The Secret to Cybersecurity . 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.

September is here and fall is upon us. Before the cold weather and snow come to your neck of the woods, be sure your church is preparing to maintain its buildings through the colder months. Consider our fall checklist below to help prepare your church for what lies ahead. Gutter Cleaning Autumn leaves are one of the most iconic images of fall, but they can also be one of the biggest hassles of the season. Gutters clogged by leaves and other debris can lead to water and ice damage down the line. Be sure you’re having them cleaned by a qualified professional or add leaf guards (also by a qualified professional) to help avoid unnecessary damage. Does your church have coverage to help handle unexpected damages this winter? Find out today! Roof Inspection In addition to cleaning your gutters, be sure to have your roof inspected for missing shingles, other damage, or wear and tear. Exposed roofs experience an increased risk of water and structural damage with the freezing and thawing that comes with winter. It’s much easier to replace a few shingles now than an entire roof later. Furnace Maintenance Your furnace is sure to get plenty of use this winter, so before the cold weather is here, have your furnace checked and make sure it’s in good enough shape to last the winter. If your furnace breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm it can potentially cause frozen pipes or other damage. Repair Damaged Walkways Slips, trips, and falls are one of the most common causes of injuries. If you haven’t yet made any necessary repairs to your parking lot, walkway, or stairs, now is the time to do them before snow and freezing temperatures arrive. Request a quote to help protect your church property today! Begin Winterizing In addition to the tips we’ve already covered, it’s a good idea to begin winterizing your church’s buildings while the weather is still moderate. Check the insulation on pipes, place weatherstripping and plastic over windows and doors, and start accumulating salt, shovels, and other supplies you’ll need for winter. We hope these tips will make it easier to prepare your church for the colder months. 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.

Proverbs 22:3 says that the prudent see danger and take refuge. This is one of the verses quoted by Barry Young, vice president of operations for Strategos International, in his Active Shooter webinar with the Church Protection Connection . Preventing and preparing for an active shooter event is more complicated than simply seeking refuge and entails more than can be presented even in a webinar like the one referenced above. Here are some things to think about from the webinar that can get you started on your own plan or help you review your existing plan. Strategos believes it is better to “prepare and prevent” than to “repair and repent.” Prevention If your church’s security planning doesn’t make or keep your church a friendly, welcoming environment then it isn’t being done properly. Shooters tend to be troubled individuals acting from anger or a desire for revenge against perceived or actual wrongs. Having people trained to spot warning signs of possible danger among members or visitors is important. Getting help early or identifying threats before may save lives or help someone get counseling before their troubles boil over into confrontation and violence. Spotting suspicious behavior can be the key to early initiation of emergency procedures giving staff and members extra time to “lock out” or “get out” before it comes down to “take out.” Lock Out Fewer than 1% of churches have a lockdown procedure that is in place and rehearsed. If a threat is recognized before it enters the building, then locking it out may prevent a shooting or buy additional time for safe evacuation or securing safe places inside the church and its offices and classrooms. Shooters know they have a limited amount of time before help arrives and having to break barriers may keep them from acting or at least slow them down. For rooms that have multiple exits (such as most sanctuaries), evacuation is a good strategy. However, before moving, one should know the direction or directions from which the threat is approaching. Moving without knowledge or a clear plan can result in being led directly into the path of danger. If the room has a single exit, learn how to barricade the door using chairs and tables or other furniture. These are typically offices, classrooms, and bathrooms. Again, shooters do not want to waste time breaking in. Do not simply hide in place under tables or behind chairs. A good plan should incorporate training in recognizing which areas are best to escape, which should be secured, and what techniques can be used to secure the rooms. Get Out If the threat is inside, exit the building or the area where the threat is occurring. Again, knowing where the threat is coming from is important so as not to move toward danger. Take Out If all else fails, act quickly and aggressively to take out the threat. Go for the weapon and use whatever may be at hand as a weapon to strike the assailant. As Barry says in the webinar, “fight like you’re the third monkey on the ramp up to the ark and brother, it’s starting to rain.” Practice Training is critical to recognizing and acknowledging a threat and to creating a rapid, proactive response to the situation. Whether it’s locking an assailant out; securing your current location; fleeing danger; or taking on an intruder; being prepared helps you know how best to respond. Therefore, have a written plan in place, communication to staff and members, and practice to ensure that everyone knows what to do if they see something unusual and how to respond to a threat. Strategos International engages over 500 security professionals nationwide with bases of operations in Missouri and Texas. We recruit and train quality law enforcement and military veterans who match our strict guidelines for professionalism and service. Each security professional is required to provide the highest level of executive protection, armed or unarmed private security, and bodyguard services. Since 2002 Strategos International has trained more than 150,000 school, church, and business personnel to prepare for the unexpected. Our training instructors are required to successfully complete a 40-hour course before they are permitted to provide training for schools, churches, or businesses on our “3 OUTs Intruder Response Model for Active Shooters or Intruders.” The instructors have annual briefings for updates on training and require re-certification of their instructor status every 2 years. 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.

United Methodist Insurance Company, Inc. (UMI) operated from 2010 to 2018 and has insured a cross-section of United Methodist churches and agencies. We have currently operated as the United Methodist Insurance Program since (UMIP) 2019. UMI's operation has handled a significant number of claims and reimbursed over $65,000,000 in property and liability claims. What can we learn from this experience that could better enable us to avoid as many losses as possible in the future? For discussion purposes we will separate property claims from liability claims Property claims Over 96% of the dollar value of claims paid by UMI were for property losses. As would be expected, most losses were related to storms. Wind and hail accounted for about 59% of all reported claims. While it might seem that there is nothing that can be done to fight nature, there are some lessons to be learned. We have seen situations where claims were denied or exacerbated by things that care and maintenance could have improved or eliminated: Ensure that your roof, eaves, flashing, and gutters are maintained. Damage caused by water that enters a building is only covered if it does so through an opening created by a covered peril. A newer, well-maintained roof may also help reduce the likelihood of disputes with insurance carriers over the cause of interior damage and could speed the resolution of claims. Keep drains and sump pumps clear of debris and in good working order. If possible, provide a backup source of power for your sump pump in the event of a power failure that often accompanies severe storms. Keep large trees clear of your roof and ensure that dead limbs are removed. This can be expensive, but it can help prevent a loss – the greater your deductible, the greater the risk to your church’s finances. Another potentially expensive fix is to make sure that there is proper drainage around your buildings. Water entering under doors may not be covered. This was the number one source of property claims being denied. Fires were not a frequent source of loss, but four of the six most significant losses were caused by fires. Follow fire prevention tips when using candles. Make sure that your electrical system is reliable and that it meets current codes. If you have a kitchen, keep your exhaust vents free from grease. Keep smoke detectors, sprinklers, and alarm systems up to code and in good working order. Leaks and overflows were the third leading cost of claims. Leak detection alarms have become less expensive and more widely available. More expensive systems can automatically shut off water when a leak is detected. These systems should be professionally installed for best results. Frozen pipes can cause significant damage. Insulate any exposed pipes, make sure there is sufficient heat in the building, open cabinet doors, and let water drip. If you attempt to thaw a frozen pipe, use a hair dryer, not a torch. Please, do not stand in water while doing so! Burglary and vandalism were the third and fourth leading causes of damage. We consider them together as both result in considerable damage to property. Burglaries are often facilitated by forced entry to property and often include vandalism in addition to theft. A monitored central station fire and burglary alarm system is a good solution if it’s in your church’s budget. It is a good idea to have dusk-to-dawn, or motion sensitive, lighting around the building and at entrances. Eliminate landscaping that provides hiding places near doors and windows. Secure windows, basement entries, and external stairways. Use deadbolt locks and metal-lined exterior doors with metal security bars. Install a video security system. Do not leave expensive items in plain view of open windows. Clean up vandalism as soon as possible after it happens. Liability claims As would be expected, slips, trips, and falls were the source of 93% of general liability occurrences and 78% of the cost of liability claims. Make sure that all outside walkways and parking lots are clear of ice, snow, and debris. Give immediate attention to all uneven surfaces to help eliminate trip hazards. Keep interior doorways, floors, and aisles dry and free of obstacles. Provide adequate lighting in all interior and exterior walkways and parking lots. Properly secure electrical cords, mats, and loose flooring. There are certainly other sources of claims that can be addressed including misconduct and playground safety, but these are the most common sources of loss that churches experience. Reducing the number and severity of these types of losses can go a long way to helping protect the people, property, and finances of your church and increase the resources available for the fulfillment of our mission on earth. 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 it comes to insurance, it's important to know if your coverage is primary or secondary. Our travel insurance partners at Travel Insured International provided this infographic to help you understand the claims process for both types of insurance. Click to view the full infographic and learn the difference between the two. T his 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.

This year has really flown by, and some of us are already starting to experience the beginnings of winter. If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to begin winterizing your buildings and start preparing colder temperatures, and even ice or snow. Check insulation Frozen pipes can cause thousands of dollars in damages and puts unneeded stress on your church and staff. Check the insulation in your buildings to make sure it can help prevent the temperatures indoors from reaching freezing levels and causing your pipes to freeze. It’s also a good idea to consider wrapping your pipes in insulation to help further protect your property from colder temperatures. The year is coming to a close but there’s still time to review your coverage before the end of 2021. Click here to receive a free quote and see if you can start saving money now and in the New Year! Covering windows Windows are a big source of cold drafts and heat loss, especially if your church has older windows. By applying window insulation kits, you can easily help reduce the amount of heat your church loses this winter. You could save money on your heating bill and help protect your buildings, as well. Keep and maintain adequate supplies Before snow and ice can begin accumulating on your parking lots and walkways, be sure to secure ice melt and snow shovels. Having supplies on hand will make it easier to clear pavement and help reduce the risk of slipping or tripping on snow and ice. Snow removal In addition to ice melt and snow shovels, your ministry should have plans for snow removal from your parking lots and walkways. Whether you hire someone to plow your parking lot, recruit volunteers to clear the snow, or do it yourself, you should have a plan in place before the snow arrives in your area. Request a free quote or coverage review to help ensure your church is protected this winter! Furnace maintenance Your furnace will be a vital part of your ministry this winter. Consider having a winter tune-up done in addition to regular maintenance to make sure everything is in order. Having your furnace go out in the middle of the winter isn’t enjoyable for anyone and puts your church’s pipes at risk of freezing. 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.

We all know it’s important to be mindful of the potential hazards that accompany the holiday season. We’ve compiled a list of the top five holiday hazards for your church to look out for to help keep your ministry safe. Candle Safety During holiday ceremonies, many churches often use real candles throughout their buildings. Consider limiting the number of real candles used to help reduce the chances of an accidental fire occurring. Battery powered candles make a great, safe alternative to traditional candles. You focus on the holidays. Let us focus on insurance. Request a free quote or coverage assessment to help ensure your church is protected this winter. Decorations Since it’s the holiday season, many churches will be planning to decorate their buildings. Things like faulty Christmas lights and live Christmas trees can be potential fire hazards if not properly maintained. Hanging decorations could become hazards as well if they’re not properly installed or secured, so be sure to use extra care when decorating. Icy Pavement Whether it’s your parking lot or walkways, icy pavement presents a serious risk of slipping or tripping for your staff and visitors. Be sure to maintain clear parking lots and walkways by plowing or shoveling snow and applying ice melt afterwards to help reduce the risk of someone being injured. Wet Floors Even with clear pavement, people will track snow or ice into your buildings that will eventually melt, creating a slipping hazard. Placing non-slip carpet mats at each entrance and throughout your halls could help reduce the chances of people slipping in your buildings. Lack of Coverage Despite all the planning and prevention efforts, there is always a risk that injuries could occur at one of your facilities. In the event that one does, make sure your ministry is protected by an adequate insurance policy that addresses the risks your church faces. There is still time to review your coverage now. You could help your church and start saving money before the end of the year. 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.