Monday, February 27, 2012

Richmond Police Promotes Safety for Places of Worship


WHAT:
Safety and Awareness Forum for Places of Worship

WHEN:
8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, March 10

WHERE:
Richmond Police Training Academy, 1202 W. Graham Road

BACKGROUND:
Churches, synagogues, mosques and temples should be places of sanctuary and solace. However, as with all buildings, the protection of people and property should be paramount.

“Thankfully, we have not experienced crimes other than thefts at our local places of worship. But we want congregations to be prepared and vigilant in maintaining the safety of their sanctuaries,” said Captain John Hall, who leads the Community, Youth and Intervention Division.

The forum will include a variety of topics to promote safety awareness for religious gathering places. Officers will be on hand to discuss everything from building lighting and locks to the handling of money.

Congregations are invited to send no more than four representatives to the forum. The forum is free, but registration is required to accommodate all attendees.

Persons interested in attending or those with questions should contact Officer Kimberly Cheatham-McClarin at 646-6754 to register by Wednesday, March 7.