The threat of fire is the single greatest danger a church faces today. Churches are vulnerable to fire for a variety of reasons including, being left unattended for long periods of time, located in isolated or remote rural areas, older wood frame construction, faulty electrical systems, and inadequate lighting and security features. Arson is the leading cause of church fires. Arson fires are motivated by a wide array of reasons including, racial or religious hatred, financial profit, cover-up for burglary and theft, vandalism, personal revenge and juvenile fire setters. Faulty wiring is the second most common cause of church fires.
Many churches are old, and in some cases actually predate the use of electricity.
Because of this, older churches may not have proper electrical systems to handle the demands of air conditioning, P.A. systems, organs, and other appliances and equipment used in churches today. Other common causes of church fires include faulty furnaces and stoves, carelessness with smoking materials, and careless use of candles and Christmas decorations. Preventing a fire from starting is the best protection that can be provided for your church. An on-going Church Fire Prevention Program can be effective in eliminating church fires. Involve church leaders in your fire prevention efforts, this will strengthen community awareness and cooperation in your efforts.