The Faith Community Safety Team

1. The Faith Community Safety Team …an instructional primer.

2. Know How to A.C.T. • Do you know how to A.C.T. if and when the unthinkable happens? While we would like to believe violence will not occur in our faith communities, and while it is unlikely, violence does occur in both our quiet small towns and our cities. When the unexpected occurs it will be useful for you to know how to A.C.T.

3. A…be ALERT: • Know and/or be aware of what is happening in or around your setting. Be alert to your surroundings. Examples could include the approach of severe weather, a stranger behaving oddly, domestic issues, a smell of smoke, and others.

4. C…be CAUTIOUS: • Don’t overreact, but don’t fail to act. Example: Our faith communities are unique. We hope and encourage visitors to come. It is important not to view each person as a threat. However, we have an obligation to observe behaviors to help us make determinations of impending events. The same application will be true regarding weather, fire, etc.

5. T…be TIMELY: • There is a time to take action! Activate your all-hazards plan and, if necessary call 911. Examples: If a person becomes disruptive, threatening, engages in inappropriate touching, tries to leave with a child not their own, or others; lock down or evacuate. If atornado warning occurs; shelter in place. If a substantive fire is burning; evacuate. Again, call 911 when appropriate. • Dusty Klein, Pastor • Revised 04.18.09

6. …for more information, contact:Greg WhiteSheriffCole County, Missourigwhite@colecounty.org(573) 634-9160