AR-15 Left Unattended in Church

In a recent incident, a backpack was found leaning against a church wall containing a collapsed AR-15 rifle. This occurrence prompts a critical discussion on the proper handling and storage of firearms in church settings, particularly when the intent is to enhance security.

---

---

The Incident

At a local church, someone left a backpack against a wall. On inspection, the contents included a collapsed AR-15 rifle. The question we all wanted to know was who left it there and why. The security director reviewed video immediately and saw that it was a church volunteer. He admitted that he brought an AR-15 in that backpack everywhere he went due to current threat conditions.

While the intentions behind carrying a rifle for church security are commendable, the manner of its storage was not. This raises significant concerns about safety and the potential for misuse or theft.

The Importance of Proper Firearm Handling

Carrying a rifle in a church environment requires careful consideration of several factors:

Training: The Bedrock of Firearms Safety

Handling a firearm in crowded settings demands extensive training. The incident of a rifle left unattended in a backpack at a church illustrates a fundamental lack of understanding and respect for the responsibilities that come with advanced firearms tactics. Proper training encompasses not just the mechanical skills of handling a weapon but also the judgment on when and how to use it, especially in environments with high foot traffic like churches.

It’s essential that anyone involved in church security undergoes regular and comprehensive training that mimics real-life situations. This includes scenario-based drills that teach how to respond effectively under stress. Regular refreshers are crucial to maintain skill levels and adapt to new threats. The person who left their rifle may have missed these ongoing training opportunities, underscoring the risks of inadequate preparation.

Ammunition Selection: More Than Just Hardware

Understanding Ammunition Types and Their Implications

The choice of ammunition is crucial in any security setup, particularly in places like churches where ensuring the safety of the congregation is paramount. Green tip ammunition, while popular for its affordability and availability, is not suited for most civilian defense scenarios, including church security. Its penetration capabilities can pose significant risks in crowded environments, potentially causing harm beyond the intended target.

When selecting ammunition for church security, consider factors like the potential for over-penetration and the specific tactical needs of the environment. Ammunition designed for precision is more appropriate for settings where a missed shot could have disastrous consequences. This careful selection process is part of responsible firearm management and is critical for the safety of all churchgoers.

Identification: Crucial for Crisis Management

The Challenge of Friend or Foe Identification in Critical Moments

In high-stress scenarios such as active shooter situations, the ability to quickly and accurately distinguish between a threat and a protector is vital. This is particularly challenging in environments where multiple individuals may be armed. The lack of clear identification can lead to tragic misunderstandings, which might result in friendly fire incidents.

Strategies for Effective Identification

Members of the church’s security team and individual carriers must have clear and recognizable signs of their status to other security personnel and law enforcement officers. This can be achieved through coordinated uniforms, badges, or other distinctive markers. Furthermore, regular interaction and drills with the entire church community that carry concealed weapons can help in familiarizing the congregation with the security team, thereby reducing the risk of misidentification.

Recommendations for Firearm-Carrying Churchgoers

• Join the Safety Team: If you are seriously committed to contributing to your church's security, consider joining the official safety team. This ensures proper coordination and training.

• Proper Storage: Long guns at church should not be left unattended. They should be securely stored and only accessed by trained individuals when the need arises.

• Engage in Regular Training: Regular and rigorous training is essential for anyone tasked with handling firearms in a church setting. This training should include scenario-based drills that simulate real-life situations.

Ensuring Safety and Preparedness

The presence of firearms in churches is a sensitive and complex issue. While the intention to protect congregants is clear, the execution of this intention must be managed with the utmost care to ensure the safety of all involved. Proper training, correct ammunition selection, secure storage, and clear identification are non-negotiable requirements for anyone bringing any firearm to church.

For those interested in further training or information on church security, hit the TRAINING tab above for FREE resources and upcoming courses designed to enhance your skills and preparedness for keeping your place of worship safe.