MCC
2012 Vacation Bible School
Risk Management

Are We Prepared for VBS?

 
It's almost that magical time of the year, Vacation Bible School time!

Bible challenges, glitter, felt, pipe cleaners, and empty paper towel tubes - here we come! 

Whether you are planning to fly away towards Amazing Wonders, blast off for a SpaceQuest, go deep with Operation Overboard or get connected with No Friend Like Jesus, the safety of our children should be planned for as well.

Following are some questions to consider as you plan for a summer full of faith, fellowship and fun.
 
Sincerely,
MCC Office of Emerging Ministries
Risk Management
VBS 2012
Safety Planning Resources
  • Do we always address and incorporate safety into our VBS planning process? Planning List
  • Have we designated a safety/security officer for the entire VBS event?
  • Do we have written guidelines that every worker must read and sign regarding proper conduct? 
  • Do we have all VBS volunteers and workers complete an application before working with children? Sample Application
  • Do we conduct reference and background checks on those working with minors? Why to Screen
  • Do we ensure that teen workers are always supervised by an adult? Child Care Ratios
  • Are all activity areas (inside and out) inspected daily for safety hazards?
  • Is all equipment inspected to ensure it is in good working order and the proper equipment for the activity?
  • Do we have adequate designated supervisors for all activities?
  • Do we always follow the "no adult alone with a child" rule by working in teams? 
  • If transporting children, do we carefully screen drivers, inspect vehicles, and follow all safety procedures?
  • Do we use an effective sign-in/sign-out process that keeps children from wandering away or being abducted?   
  • Are we able to make quick decisions and follow-through in regards to any safety or security issues?
  • Do we de-brief after the VBS event to discuss how we might be able to correct safety concerns for coming events?
Sample Documents
Contact Vickey Gibbs in the Office of Emerging Ministries at VickeyGibbs@MCCchurch.net for the following checklists, articles and sample documents:

 

Check-in and Check-out Guide
Preventing Peer Emotional Abuse (Bullying)
Safely Disciplining Kids at Church
Protecting the Smallest Members of our Church  
Youth Trips and Activities
Safe Day Care Guide
Creating a Child Sexual Abuse Response Plan 
Creating A Safety Team
Planning for Emergency Evacuations
Keeping Recreational Facilities Safe
Safety on the Road
Hosting a Safe Retreat
Safe Mentoring 
VBS 2012 Useful Websites