House of Worship Safety Training

Middlesex Community College

Campus Center Building – Café East

591 Springs Road, Bedford, MA 01730

Sponsors: Middlesex District Attorney Marian T. Ryan, and The MCC Program on Homeland Security

Participating Agencies: Massachusetts State Police, Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, Lowell Fire Department

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and the Middlesex Community College Program on Homeland Security invite house of worship clergy, staff and congregants to a timely and important discussion of security in an uncertain time. Practical, useful information and best practice tips will be provided by experts from the Massachusetts State Police, municipal police, and the Lowell Fire Department. A panel representing various faith traditions will discuss their concerns, and steps they are taking to increase security without impinging upon the open and welcoming nature of their worship services and parish practices.

Although there is no specific threat in our area, last November’s attack against First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, the 2015 attack against Mother Emanuel Church in Charleston, SC, and church attacks in Europe demonstrate the need for prudent planning.

There is no cost to attend this training.

TOPICS:

Ø Violence warning signs

Ø Active shooter threats

Ø Improvised explosive device (I.E.D.) threats

Ø Emergency operations planning

Ø Interfaith panel discussion.

To register please e-mail name, church affiliation and e-mail address to: diane.m.macdonald@state.ma.us.

Registration deadline: April 18, 2018