First Presidency Encourages Safety in ‘Well-Planned’ Church Activities

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The First Presidency reiterated the high priority that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places on safety in a letter sent worldwide to stake and ward leaders on Friday, May 28, 2026.

The letter directs leaders to “use good judgment” and approve “well-planned” activities that “provide opportunities to feel our Savior’s love, build fellowship and serve others.”

The letter states that activities should follow section 20.7 of the “General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” safety guidelines (included in the First Presidency letter and below), and the principles shared on safety.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Available in 10 languages, safety.ChurchofJesusChrist.org includes information and videos to help leaders and members proactively plan safe activities and increase awareness and safety as they serve and participate in Church activities.

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Safety Guidelines in Activities

People and Preparation

• Protecting children and youth. Complete the Protecting Children and Youth training.
• Informing parents. Activity details should be shared with parents so they can decide about their child’s participation.
• Liability insurance. Those who oversee activities should protect themselves by carrying reasonable amounts of liability insurance, such as homeowner’s and vehicle liability insurance. See the “Common Questions” section at safety.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
• Emergency contacts. For emergency situations, know how to contact parents, Church leaders, law enforcement and emergency services.

Activity Safety

• Planning safe activities. Prayerfully plan activities that are appropriate for participants’ ages, abilities and maturity. View the “Planning a Safe Activity” section to learn more.
• Release form. For activities involving an overnight stay or inherent risks associated with physical activity, travel or outdoor experiences, fill out the Permission and Medical Release Form.
• Water safety. For water activities and for activities near a waterfront, follow precautions found in the “Swimming Safety” section.
• Vehicle laws. Follow national and local vehicle laws, including off-highway and off-road vehicle laws.

Incident Reporting

• Reporting an incident. Notify bishops and stake presidents if an accident, serious illness or injury occurs on Church property or during a Church-sponsored activity. Report incidents at incident.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
• Serious accidents. If an accident involves a fatality or overnight hospital stay, immediately notify Church Risk Management (1-801-240-4049 or riskmgt@ChurchofJesusChrist.org), notify the Area Presidency and submit an incident report.
• Medical assistance. In the United States, be familiar with the Church Activity Medical Assistance (CAMA) program. When incidents are reported, the bishop will be notified and receive a link to help Church members apply for CAMA. Outside the United States, priesthood leaders should contact the area office for guidance.

Additional Resources

Meetinghouse safety flyers are also available for local use to help in planning safe activities.