Executive Summary
- Two Florida SWAT team members have launched "Shield the Flock" to train houses of worship in security protocols.
- The firm offers active shooter response training, casualty care, and physical site assessments for churches and synagogues.
- Training curricula utilize data from past nationwide incidents to enhance situational awareness and readiness.
HOBE SOUND, Fla. – Two active SWAT team members have established a specialized security consultancy aimed at fortifying houses of worship against active shooter threats and other emergencies.
The firm, known as Shield the Flock, was founded by officers from a local law enforcement agency to provide tailored security training for synagogues and churches. According to the organization’s website, the team conducts comprehensive evaluations of facility layouts, lighting systems, and access points to identify vulnerabilities and recommend protective measures.
In addition to physical site assessments, the company offers core seminar training that encompasses active shooter response, situational awareness, and emergency casualty care. The curriculum also includes firearms training and scenario-based drills designed to simulate real-world threats. The founders emphasize that their mission is to empower religious communities to "take ownership of their safety through education, readiness, and structure."
The training methodology relies on the analysis of previous security incidents at houses of worship across the United States, allowing security teams to learn from historical data and refine their response protocols.
Security Preparedness Outlook
The emergence of specialized security training for religious institutions reflects a growing recognition of the vulnerability of "soft targets" within the public safety landscape. As houses of worship increasingly identify the need for heightened vigilance, the integration of law enforcement tactics—such as SWAT-level active shooter response and casualty care—into civilian volunteer teams marks a significant shift in community defense strategies. This proactive approach aims to bridge the critical gap between the onset of a crisis and the arrival of first responders, potentially mitigating the impact of mass casualty events.
