Vacant buildings often become a target for vandals, burglars, and criminal acts. Protecting your ministry's facilities while worshipping and working virtually can be done with proper resources and planning. Create a first, second, and third line of defense. Meet and Greet Your Neighbors The people that live closest to your facility can be a great asset in your loss prevention plan. If you have a healthy relationship with your community, they can help you watch the facilities and notify your staff or police if they suspect suspicious activity. Building these relationships also helps you to understand your community and how you can better serve them. Keep the Yard Up Maintaining the grounds during extended vacancy can also help prevent theft. Landscaping that isn’t well kept is a more likely target due to the appearance of abandonment. Even if you reduce the number of times per month you care for your yard, these actions are crucial to deterring criminal activity on your property. Invest in an Alarm System A security system is an essential tool in protecting a vacant property. Motion sensors, video cameras, water sensors, and security signage can help both catch potential burglars in the act and help to notify you if you have any equipment failures. Choosing a security system that includes 24/7 monitors will give you the peace of mind that your facility is always being watched. Maintain Your Insurance Coverage While reducing or canceling your insurance can be tempting, it is very important to maintain proper insurance coverage. The purpose of insurance is to help your ministry respond when the unexpected happens. While there may be a reduction in trips or falls in the building while empty, a burst pipe or electrical fire could significantly damage your building. Keeping your insurance coverage will help your ministry to respond better in an emergency. Develop a Plan Make plans for every event that could happen while your building is vacant. From a water leak to property defiling, your ministry should have plans to respond in an emergency, including proper notification protocols and key individuals to contact. Be sure to have your policy information and insurance contact information handy to reduce response time. 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.

Snow removal can be a physically and mentally demanding job. Proper planning and consistency can reduce the demands of this task. When the weather outside is frightful, make sure your ministry is prepared to clear a path for a delightful service. Shovel light snow Dry snow, especially in extreme cold, tends to be lighter and easier to move. Shoveling your walkways will help your visitors have a clear path to entering your building. This will also decrease the amount of snow tracked inside as people enter and reduce the chances of someone slipping. Pretreat key areas After shoveling, and before the next snowfall, place rock salt or melt ice in your walkways, stairs, and driveways. Snow will accumulate slower and, in some cases, melt upon hitting the ground helping you maintain clear paths to your facility. Be aware not to leave the rock salt on the surface for extended periods to reduce the number of repairs due to walkway cracking. Be aware of debris on the ground Using machines, like snow blowers, can make removing any type of snow a breeze. Before you begin making your winter wonderland, be cautious of areas that have the potential for debris. Rocks, tree limbs, and other objects could cause damage to your snowblower or become projectiles from the chute. Also, be sure to point the chute away from your building and other people in case debris enters the machine. Schedule snow removal One of the worst things you can do during a big snowstorm is to wait for the end of the storm to being snow removal. Instead, schedule times to shovel, snow blow, and plow every three to four hours, or as necessary. As the storm moves out of your area, you can increase the time between snow removal sessions. Avoid placing snow near the foundation While removing snow, take care not to place snow piles near the base of your building or important structures. As this snow melts, the water can negatively affect the structure's foundation. Also, the snow is shaded by the building and that reduces the amount of sunlight that hits the snow increasing the amount of time it will take for the snow to melt. Shovel flat roofs For easily accessible flat roofs, shoveling snow can reduce the potential for water accumulation and roof leaks. Be careful not to damage your roof covering and only perform these tasks when the weather conditions are appropriate. Heavy winds and low-visibility can create disastrous situations and should be avoided. Shoveling snow isn’t the most glamourous task for your ministry, but it doesn’t have to be a backbreaker. Even with preventative measures, accidents happen. 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.

Before your church reopens for full activities, schedule time to help ensure your playground is safe and secure for your young members. There are six areas to consider which can help you plan for, protect, and restore the safety of your playground area: Composites Structure The main structure(s) of a jungle-gym are essential to providing a safe environment on your playground. Examine the drive and foundation screws for all your structures. Secure any loose screws and remove any debris from the area. Check welds on all structures for cracks and schedule repairs to reinforce any cracked areas. Connections between structures like slides, swing sets, and other playground equipment should be examined for rust and erosion, as well. Taking time to check these areas can give your ministry a solid foundation for playground safety. Slides The quickest way from point A to point B, on a playground, is the slide. Perhaps the most popular area of the playground, both metal and composite slides can be a source of safety hazards. Check slides for scratches, chips, warps, and cracks. Repair or replace any components if these hazards are present. Also, replace any missing, cracked, broken, or rusted bolts, nuts, and screws. Be sure that all existing and replacement parts are appropriate for the intended use.  Finally, make sure the footing and landing area of the slide is safe for exiting the slide. Spinners While spinning around in circles in a tire or on a merry-go-round may be fun, the dismount can be a sticky situation. Look out for any visible wear and tear on the equipment. Also, make sure there are no visible moving mechanical parts on the equipment. Replace any shields or parts that are rusted or chipped to help prevent scratches and cuts. It is very important to provide an appropriate landing area that is free of debris. Because of potential disorientation or dizziness, this debris could create a tripping hazard. Speed regulators and proper adult supervision can help your ministry avoid a costly injury from equipment misuse. Ladders and Climb Walls Rising to the top can be a lot of fun -- if done safely. Tighten and secure all rungs or climbing grips. If possible, adding appropriate non-slip material can add an extra level of safety to this equipment. Repair any corrosion at connection points and perform general maintenance on the foundation of this style of equipment. These areas should always be closely monitored by a screened and trained adult. Swings We all remember feeling like we could touch the sky at the apex of a swing. Maintaining this area of your ministry will provide that same experience for the next generation. Check all chain links, seats, and 'S' hooks to make sure they are in good working condition. Repair and cover any exposed metal that could pinch, scratch, or cut equipment users. Ensuring your ministry provides an appropriate amount of landing space based on equipment guidelines can help protect swing users and your ministry. Playing Surface The surface of the playground area is your last line of defense against scrapes, bumps, and bruises. Consult a playground assembly specialist for playground surface recommendations. Walk across the surface and check for extreme wear and tear. If you have a loose-fitting surface like sand, pebbles, or wood chips, check for adequate depth of the material into the ground. Also, clean any loose material from sidewalks and other areas outside of the playground. After completing this checkup, make note of any completed repairs or future maintenance needs in a maintenance report for your church council. This will help your church keep a record of these actions and prepare for potential playground safety expenses. 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 disaster strikes your ministry, you likely won’t be thinking about your insurance claim. You’ll be focused on protecting your people, making repairs, and navigating your potential financial implications. Luckily, maintaining appropriate coverage for your church can help mitigate many of those problems. However, you will first need to file a claim. When should you file a claim? If someone is injured, alleges misconduct, accusations are made against directors or officers, something is stolen, or property is damaged, it’s always a good idea to file a claim immediately. The claims process varies depending on the circumstances, so it’s very important that you submit your claims as soon as possible after an incident has occurred. How can you support the claims process? A great way to support the claims process is to cooperate with investigators and provide as much information as possible so that they can make an educated decision. Once the situation at your ministry is safe and contained, begin taking photos of the damages done to your property to properly document them. Gather any receipts or proof of ownership for any items that were stolen, damaged, or destroyed. By thoroughly collecting this information and quickly providing it to your insurance company, you increase your chances of having a smooth claims process. Who should you contact? Contact your insurance agency or carrier when you need to file a claim. Many companies have 24/7 support or offer online options like apps or websites that help you begin the claims process. How long does it take for a claim to be resolved? Every claim is different, and there are a number of different factors that affect the length of time it takes for a claim to be resolved. It could potentially take days, weeks, or even years for certain claims to be resolved depending on the circumstances. What could be a cause of your claim being denied? The primary reason for your claim being denied is that the loss isn’t covered by your policy. It’s important to read your policy or speak to your agent about any potential reasons that your claim could be denied. If you are unsure of what your coverage entails or if you think your coverage might not be appropriate for your church, contact your agent. 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.

As churches begin to reopen or consider reopening, we want to help your ministry have a thorough internal discussion regarding this issue. We are providing these so that your leadership team can begin discussions and are not guidelines or rules. Rather, these are seven areas of consideration in your planning from an insurance perspective. State and Local Guidelines Any guidelines or reopening plans provided by your state and local officials should serve as a starting point. Following these guidelines will help ensure you’re providing the appropriate worship experience based on the COVID-19 infection levels in your area. The demographic make-up of your worship community can also provide valuable information for your reopening plans. Advise those who don’t feel well and those who are in an at-risk population (age, immune status, etc.) to stay at home until they feel better or the risk of transmitting COVID has passed. Establish good communication both externally with officials and internally with your community. Doing this helps you gather appropriate information and properly communicate your plans for worship and reopening. Also, we encourage communicating your plans with any organization or group that meets in your building to ensure proper care is taken. Provide clear documentation and signage through your facility of any changes and adjustments to the worship experience and help your hospitality team be your first advocates for any adjusted plans. Provide notice to your District and the Conference offices of your ministry’s intent to reopen. Their approval to open is important from a liability perspective but doesn’t guarantee safety or removal of liability. Be aware that reopening your church against the advice of your district or conference leadership can open your ministry up to some liability issues. Personal Hygiene Practices Check your ministry’s personal hygiene materials inventory. Anti-bacterial hand soap, hand sanitizer, and paper towels are essential in maintaining the safest environment possible in your facility. Having extra hand sanitizer and sanitizer stations can aide your defense against the spread of germs. Staff, members, and visitors should be reminded to cough or sneeze in the elbow pit. Providing no-touch trash cans will also help decrease opportunities for disease spread. Mask Provisions Consider providing your staff and any visitor to your facility face masks to be worn while in the building. This could also be used as a marketing tool for your members and staff. Several companies offer cloth masks that can be outfitted with your ministry’s logo. There could be a local vendor or business that your ministry could partner with to produce these masks. Be aware of any guidelines provided by manufactures on use and maintenance of masks. Intensify Cleaning Reviewing, revising, and implementing your cleaning plan and processes could help your church further its efforts to maintain a safe environment. Take inventory of cleaning products and restock needed materials or supplies. Also, your ministry may want to consider increasing the frequency of cleanings and the thoroughness of routine cleanings. Social Distancing Your ministry should consider what steps it can take to encourage social distancing within the facility. Consider changing your worship venue if you have access to a room larger than your sanctuary. Larger rooms provide more opportunity for distance and potential for proper ventilation. Also, the number of individuals who can gather in your facility may be limited by local or state guidelines. In those cases, consider providing alternate worship experiences or platforms. Using signage and markers can help congregants maintain safe distances away from each other while attending worship. Community Sharing Worship Materials Providing alternative worship materials will help limit the opportunities for shared worship materials, like hymnals and bulletins, to spread any disease. Consider storing all hymnals and Bibles in a secure location until COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. This could be an opportunity for your ministry to embrace digital and projection-based song lyrics, bulletins, and orders of service. Your ministry should also explore alternative giving options. Offering digital tithes and offerings can reduce the risk a collection plate being a source of disease transmission. Monitoring and Response Encourage all staff and members who are sick or think they may be sick to stay home. This encouragement should also be extended to individuals who may have encountered a person with COVID-19. As individuals enter your building for worship, consider developing a monitoring system with local health officials to identify people who may be visibly ill. Your ministry should also consider what actions would be appropriate in response to a visibly ill person attending worship or being notified that a COVID-19 positive individual attended worship. Having clear safety and response procedures will help increase your ministries preparedness to appropriately react to these situations. The excitement of joining together again in worship with your community can be a great opportunity to reconnect. As you decide when and how to reopen your facility, take care to provide your members and visitors with the safest worship experience possible. Visit our website UMInsure.org/covid19links for more COVID-19 related resources and links to CDC resources for faith communities. 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 information is intended to serve as a starting point for creating a plan to return to your place of gathering and worship. Please review your state and local guidelines and stay abreast of the latest information through the CDC and your state health department.  These and other measures can reduce the chance of the spread of Covid-19 but nothing can completely eliminate the risk of the transmission of this or other illnesses.  Wear your mask; wash your hands; maintain safe distances; and if you don’t feel well, have been exposed to Covid-19, or have underlying health issues then please avoid gathering with others until it’s safe to do so. 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.

Candles are an important symbol in worship for United Methodists, especially during the Advent and holiday season. However, these symbols have the potential to cause major damage to your ministry's facilities when mismanaged or mishandled. You can help ensure your members take the light of the world with them and decrease the opportunities for tragedy with simple precautions. Use artificial candles to minimize risks.  The best way to protect your facilities and members from a fire hazard relating to candles is to use artificial candles. Battery-powered and or flameless candles significantly reduce the opportunity for fires while providing an authentic feel. Though some of the symbolism of a live burning flame may be lost, the added peace of mind for your staff could be priceless. Place candles in low traffic areas. Be conscious of the amount of potential activity around a candle. High traffic areas present a significant risk for candles to be bumped or toppled over, which could cause damage or personal injury. Make sure your candles are placed on heat-resistant platforms and that combustible materials/liquids are kept clear of any open flame. This includes Christmas trees and decorations. Monitor the candle and flames while in use.  Live flames should never be left unattended. Your ministry should identify individuals to keep an eye on the candles to ensure they are burning properly and functioning appropriately. Open flames must be monitored at all times and be put out before leaving the room and facility. Also, candles shouldn’t be left burning for more than 4 hours at a time. Prepare for a fire safety emergency ( Fire Safety Tips ) Check to make sure your facility's fire safety system and equipment are up-to-date and appropriately stored. Properly record all equipment and inventory checks. Connecting with your local fire department can help you make sure your church is properly resourced for a fire emergency. A fire extinguisher should be close to any open flame candle. Ministry, event, and worship leaders should be made aware of the potential risk of any fire risks and have emergency plans ready to execute if necessary. A list of important contacts should also be made available in the case of an emergency. For additional safety tips, visit the National Fire Protection Association's website and search “candle safety.” 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.

Workers' compensation laws were developed in the United States in the early 1900s. These rules gave workers no-fault access to treatment and compensation for work-related injuries and occupational diseases arising out of the course and scope of their employment. For the most part, these laws created rights for injured workers and made the settlement of workplace injuries an administrative matter rather than a civil matter. Statutes covering workers’ compensation vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but employers gain protection of no-fault compensation. States define which size or types of employers may “opt out” of the system and forego the purchase of workers’ compensation coverage. However, even those who forego coverage can be liable in the event of an injury or accident. When an eligible employer decides to opt out of coverage, they are actually opting in to exposing themselves and their other workers to litigation in the event of a serious or even not-so-serious workplace injury or illness. It is true that most church work is non-hazardous and injuries similar to industrial ones that spawned the system generally don’t happen. However, people can fall off ladders or down the stairs or they could slip and fall. They sometimes get in automobile accidents or hurt their backs lifting something they thought they could lift. Accidents are sometimes completely or partially caused by the inadvertent actions of co-workers. These claims can expose the church and its employees to lawsuits if the injured party seeks compensation in the absence of workers’ compensation coverage and in the absence or insufficiency of disability or other applicable coverages. So, before you opt out or continue to opt out of workers’ compensation coverage, ask yourselves these questions: Do I want to risk significant cost to the church resulting from an uncompensated injury? Do I want to expose my employees to the cost of either providing their own medical care and income or suing the church and its employees to recover damages? Do I want to expose my employees to defending themselves in a lawsuit brought by a coworker, due to an accident for which they are allegedly responsible? Is there a master workers’ compensation policy at the conference level that I can use to pay a premium that doesn’t include the minimum cost of issuing an insurance policy? 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.

While many churches have safely reopened their doors, COVID-19 continues to evolve. With the emergence of the Delta variant and some areas experiencing an increase in positive cases, new recommendations may arise. It remains important to adhere to state and local guidelines as well as prioritize proper sanitation. Here are some important considerations for church sanitation plans. 1. Develop a plan If you have not already done so, the first step to proper sanitation is developing a plan. Ensure that your church is cleaned and sanitized before any gathering takes place. Walk through your facility to identify high traffic or high touchpoint areas and make a note to continually disinfect them. Create a cleaning schedule. Keep a log of the areas that are cleaned and what supplies are used for each surface. Determine how you will get your cleaning supplies and equipment. This could include borrowing, renting, or purchasing items. If you need to purchase items, consider purchasing through one of GCFA’s ministry partners like the Home Depot, Ecolab, or Staples to receive discounts on supplies. For a list of disinfectants that are EPA-approved to fight against COVID-19, refer to the EPA website. 2. Implement and maintain your plan Once you implement a plan, follow your cleaning schedule and take frequent inventory of your cleaning supplies to ensure you can disinfect your facility on a regular basis. Again, it is particularly important to clean in between, before and after worship services and other church gatherings. Remember the importance and effectiveness of social distancing while staff or volunteers are cleaning. 3. Continually evaluate your plan Whether you are new to developing a church sanitation plan or have had one implemented for some time, remember that it is important to make sure your plan reflects how your church is operating today. If certain areas of your facility have recently opened up that were previously closed, they should be included in your regular cleaning rotation. Additionally, consider if you need to increase the purchase of products that promote healthy hygiene like soap, paper towels, or hand sanitizer. Continue to keep masks on-site for when social distancing is difficult or for particularly vulnerable guests. The pandemic unfortunately remains a public health threat despite some restrictions being lifted. Staying vigilant while carrying out your church’s sanitation plan and continuing to adhere to state and local guidelines can help make your ministry a safer place for your congregants and community to gather. 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 an emergency happens at your church do your staff, members, and visitors know what to do? As church leaders, we all play a pivotal role in helping to prepare our communities to respond in an emergency. To help you plan and protect your ministry, we discuss key elements to consider when creating an emergency preparedness plan. Access Current Plans Your church leadership team should set a time to develop or review its plans for various emergencies. Setting this meeting can help you identify strengths and weaknesses within your emergency preparedness plans and procedures. The planning team should examine realistic hazards based on your local context and resources available. Consulting local emergency response officials like firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement can improve the effectiveness of your plan. Also, emergency response officials may have critical insight into the church's response in an emergency case. This information can help them respond to an emergency at your facility. Prepare or Adjust Your Response It’s now time to develop or amend emergency response plans for your ministry. Based on the assessment of your ministry context, potential emergencies, and recommendations from emergency response personnel, develop both external and internal threat plans: Exterior threat (e.g., Severe weather, violent threat outside of facility) Identify safe interior spaces that help limit exposure to an external threat. Keep in mind the space needed to provide adequate shelter for the potential number of building occupants. Include plans for guiding building occupants to identified safe areas and clear communication procedures for your emergency response team when dealing with an external threat. Interior threat (e.g., fire, bomb threat, internal security threat) Based on the schematics of your facility, develop clear escapes routes and gathering areas for all interior rooms. A separate set of communication procedures may be needed for an internal threat to help ensure your emergency response team functions effectively. In all situations take special care to consider the needs of our vulnerable communities. UMIP has partnered with Strategos to provide a free Active Shooter webinar . Conduct Drills After you have completed your emergency response plans, communicate them to your team. Conducting walkthroughs and practicing scenarios with your team can improve its response time and allow you to identify additional weaknesses in your plan. Relocate any items that obstruct an evacuation route or a marked path to an internal safe room. Conduct these drills when new members are added to your team as well as quarterly based on seasonal threats. Create and Publish Lists Gather the contact information for your external emergency response personnel and internal response personnel. This list should be made available to all event leaders or vendors that use your ministry’s facilities. Also, this list should be promptly updated when information changes. These are external emergency contacts that should be on your list: Police Fire departments Ambulance service Hospitals Gas and Electric Company Church Insurance Agent (Policy #) Gather Supplies Make sure your ministry has adequate and appropriate supplies for an emergency. Develop an inventory checklist of the items that may be needed for emergency response. Schedule and document regular inventory checks and ensure all response kits and supplies are in their proper locations. We’ve compiled a list of a few essential emergency response supplies: First-Aid Kit Portable mobile device charger Portable, battery-powered radio or television Extra batteries Flashlights Waterproof matches Water Visit your local hardware or retail store to review their emergency response kits. Many disaster response experts suggest purchasing an NOAA Weather Radio that includes a tone alert to notify you of severe weather. 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.

Make sure the wheels on your church bus go round and round Vehicle maintenance helps your ministry be a good steward of its resources. You can reduce the potential for a mechanical issue affecting your ability to do ministry by following these simple steps. Create a maintenance checklist Drafting a list of areas to check on your vehicle and setting a schedule for maintenance checks is key for proper vehicle care. Tires, fluids, windshield wipers, and lights are relatively easy areas to check . Schedule time for a mechanic to check your vehicles major systems like fuel, braking, and exhaust. Include Preventive Maintenance in the Fleet Schedule Don’t wait until a break down to schedule a visit to a mechanic for maintenance or repairs. Maintenance tasks like oil changes, transmission flushing, and tire rotations are essential to vehicle breakdown prevention. Your mechanic can also identify other wear and tear that could cause costly repairs. Share ministry vehicle policy with drivers Clearly communicate your ministry vehicle policies with active and potential drivers. Make sure your staff and volunteers understand your ministry’s rules and expectations for all drivers. Include instructions for breakdown and incident response for your drivers. Develop a relationship with a local mechanic Taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic can help your ministry’s vehicle maintenance effort. Having a consistent maintenance provider can better identify potential problem areas and provide expedited care. Keep ministry vehicles clean A church van that is presentable and free of trash and debris reflects positively on your ministry. Caring for the interior and regularly washing your vehicle gives you a professional and pleasing image. It will also be easier to identify rust or carpet stains when proper care is given. 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 almost time for a steamy mug of hot cocoa to replace the ice cold cup of sweet tea. Make your ministry’s facilities as cozy and comfortable as your home. Knowing what to do, when you do it, and how to get it done can give you peace of mind, especially during an extended period of vacancy. Plan Ahead Schedule time for your facilities management team to develop and implement a plan to winterize your buildings. Be sure you include a detailed plan for snow and ice removal. Keep the contact information for local snow removal contractors handy for large accumulations and parking lot care. Keep shovels, ice melting products, and gloves ready for your employees or volunteers. Planning is the first step to keeping the heat in and the cold out. KEEP IN THE HEAT Clean and Service Your Furnace Contact an HVAC professional to have your system serviced before the winter comes. Replace air filters as recommended by the label or heating professionals. You may notice an odor during the first couple of days of furnace use; that’s normal. If the smell lasts for an extended time contact a professional to look at your heating system. Also, cleaning air-ducts can help keep potentially flammable debris out of harm’s way.  Insulate. Insulate. Insulate. Keeping the heat in is the goal. Insulate your facility as best as you can to help you achieve that goal. Keep all insulation at least 3 inches away from light fixtures. A licensed contractor could help you understand and discover which areas of your facility could use some extra attention. Also, wrapping an exposed pipe in insulation will help prevent your pipes from bursting and causing costly repairs.  Seal Windows and Doors Air leaks and drafts from windows and doors are another common source of warm air escaping your facility. Properly securing and sealing all exterior windows and doors will also help reduce your utility bills. Take notes and schedule maintenance on any seal that may need extra attention.  Check Your Emergency Alert Resources Staying alert will help you stay protected. Be sure you have the adequate number of detectors to cover your facility. Also, schedule monthly detector checks and replace them every 10 years. Contact your local fire department for help with this subject.  KEEP THE COLD OUT Help Prevent Exterior Leaks Taking care of your exterior can help insulate your interior. Snow, sleet, ice and heavy rains can cause gutters and downspouts to leak or break. Clean your gutters of debris and properly secure any loose sections. Keeping melting snow or ice away from your building can help prevent cracks in seals or foundation. Also, turn off any exterior faucets and disconnect hoses to help prevent frozen water expanding and causing damage.  Check Your Roof for Damage Don’t forget about your roof when you check your gutters. If there are any visible areas in need of repair, schedule a licensed contractor to perform repairs before the winter. A compromised roof can cause water damage and reduces the energy efficiency of your building. Heat rises and holes in a roof will cause your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature within the building.  Prepare Your Landscaping Trimming your bushes and shrubs will help your beautiful landscaping endure the cold of winter. Also, collect and dispose all fallen leaves and limbs to prevent water or ice accumulation. Examine your walkways and parking lot for holes and cracks that should be filled. Following product instructions for ice melting solutions will help extend the life of your walking surfaces.  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.

Can you believe that fall is almost here? This means colder temperatures are approaching and your church building could use a bit of tender loving care. Take care of your common quarterly maintenance while the weather is still nice outside.  Landscape Raking, trimming hedges, and cutting back tree limbs will give your church a clean and visually pleasing face to your community and members. Check your sidewalks, walkways, and any other hard surfaces for cracks and potential trip hazards. Check your parking lot for general maintenance needs as well. Fill potholes, clear dangerous debris like glass or nails. Finally, make sure all your handrails are secure and structurally sound.  Roofing and Gutters Snow and ice can cause major issues for your roof and gutters. Clear both of any debris and check for maintenance before and after leaves begin falling this fall. Also, take note of any areas that need repair. Check windows for drafts, cracks, and separations. These areas allow cool or warm air from your HVAC system to escape from the building. You can examine the weather stripping around your windows while you wash them and look for cracks.  Equipment Check  You should plan to perform necessary maintenance on your seasonal equipment. Conduct any necessary repairs and properly store your spring and summer equipment. After completion of the repairs, grab your fall and winter equipment like doormats, shovels, leaf blowers, and snow blowers. Make these items readily available for use during colder months. Take a walk around the property at dusk and ensure all lights are functioning properly. If streetlights are out be sure to contact your local government agency to have them fixed or replaced. COVID-19 Sanitation Your church should have an active sanitation plan for your church. Be proactive about the safety of your members and develop a sanitation plan for your ministry . Be consistent and diligent in your cleaning efforts throughout this global health crisis. 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.