General good practice

• Never leave keys in locks.
• Never 'hide' keys on the premises.
• Keep coats and valuables securely when the building is in use.
• Never leave internal secure areas/rooms unlocked even when the building is in use.
• Nominate as small a number of responsible people as practicable to be key holders.
• Ensure the local police know who the key holders are.
• Establish procedures to ensure premises are locked and secure when vacated.
• Keep valuable and easily portable equipment in locked cupboards when not in use.
• Ensure key holders know how to react on discovery of a crime or an intruder and consider personal safety by trying to ensure two people are on the premises.
• Encourage all church/places of worship users to be alert and observant - a minor act of vandalism or theft may occur before a more serious attack.
• Keep in touch with your local Crime Reduction Officer and Fire Prevention Officer for up to date advice relevant to the circumstances of your building(s) and criminal activities and trends.