The holiday season brings special services, decorations, and events—but also potential safety hazards. Here’s how to keep everyone safe during holiday celebrations.
🚗 Parking Lots and Walkways
- Ensure adequate lighting in parking areas and around the building, especially for evening events.
- For snowy and icy locations, have a solid plan for clearing lots and walkways.
🚪 Steps and Entryways
- Keep steps and entryways clean and dry to prevent slips.
- Place salt and shovels at entrances with designated individuals responsible for clearing snow and ice.
- Use entrance mats, hazard signs, or cones to warn visitors of slippery conditions.
- Keep a mop and bucket handy for wet entry areas.
🎄 Decorations and Fire Safety
- Inspect all ladders and equipment before decorating.
- Ensure only capable individuals handle heavy lifting or climbing.
- Check all electrical decorations before use.
- Use caution with candles—these are common causes of holiday fires.
🎭 Special Services and Live Events
- Plan for safety when incorporating live animals, elevated risers, or large props.
- Designate a staff member to oversee safety measures.
- Conduct a walk-through with a checklist before every event.
- Involve security or safety team members in holiday planning.
📢 Awareness, Training, and Communication
- Raise awareness about seasonal safety risks among leaders and members.
- Add safety reminders to bulletins, signs, and announcements.
- Encourage open communication about hazards and best practices.
By planning ahead and staying vigilant, churches can create a joyful and safe holiday experience for all.
