Safety Tips for Conference Participants

Traveling Smart

  1. Be careful about leaving valuables, purses, and IDs in meeting and hotel rooms. Make a copy of your ID so if it were lost, officials could use the information to check databases.
  2. Do not carry your passport with you once you arrive at the conference destination. Make a copy if needed and secure your passport in your hotel room safe. If lost or stolen, obtaining a new one can be difficult, time-consuming, and may even delay your return home.
  3. Avoid carrying all your cash with you. Always leave enough cash in your hotel room safe to get you through the conference should you be robbed or lose your money. To avoid making yourself a target do not display large amounts of cash or other valuable items.
  4. For women, try not to carry a purse if possible. If you must carry a purse, do so with it securely under your arm. 

Using Street Sense

  1. Be observant of your environment. Use well-lit streets and areas that feel safe. Select routes that are the shortest distance between the host hotel and your destination but avoid deserted areas.
  2. Walk with confidence. To avoid being a target, communicate the message that you are confident, calm, know where you are going, and aware of your surroundings.
  3. Remove conference badges. Leave your conference badge and tote bag in your hotel room. These are signs that you are from out of town and may make you an easy target.
  4. Safety in numbers. Travel in groups and avoid traveling by yourself. Make sure to check on each other periodically and agree on departures times.
  5. Just Say No! Avoid street solicitors. If you feel compelled to give, donate to a charitable organization.

Hotel Safety

  1. Whether in the meeting room or guest room, be aware of the nearest exits in case of an emergency.
  2. Use all auxiliary locking devices on your hotel doors and windows. Use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry. Don't let anybody in your hotel room without knowing they are expected and wearing a uniform or badge. If in doubt, call the front desk.
  3. In case of a fire emergency, be sure to check the door for heat and smoke before exiting.