Safety & Accessibility

Safety & Accessibility at WEFTEC

The information on this webpage is intended to provide general guidance on how best to prepare and respond to an emergency. This webpage will also be used to relay information to WEFTEC registrants and family members in the event of an emergency or natural disaster that severely affects WEFTEC.

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Safety and Security

WEF works hard to provide a comfortable and safe environment for WEFTEC, including contracting with a private security firm and off-duty police officers. Your help also is needed to provide a safe and secure meeting environment. WEF recommends that you follow these safety guidelines:

1. Share your plans. Advise a family member or friend of your travel plans, including the dates you will be gone, how you will travel to the meeting, and where you are staying.
2. Protect your identity. Wear your name badge only inside the meeting and convention facility; remove and secure your name badge when going to and from the meeting; when disposing of your name badge, scratch out or destroy your name and the QR code to protect your personal information.
3. Don’t draw attention. People who look like they’re from out of town are especially vulnerable to crime, so try to blend in as much as you can. Choose inconspicuous clothing that won't attract attention. Be discreet when looking at maps and approach people carefully if you need to ask for directions.
4. Be aware of your surroundings and travel in groups. Don’t let your guard down to snap the perfect picture for your social media platforms. Always keep an eye on your personal belongings and use good judgment when talking to strangers. A big part of the joy of traveling is the opportunities it affords to meet new people and learn about their cultures. But if someone near you is acting suspiciously, or if you feel uncomfortable, leave the area immediately. Avoid walking alone on unlit streets at night.
5. Moderate cell phone usage when out. Pay attention when walking and using your smartphone as these devices have been the target of thieves nationwide.
6. Be on the lookout for pickpockets. Consolidate your wallet. Don't bring every credit card and move it to your front pocket or/and wear a cross-body bag rather than a shoulder strap to keep your purse in front of you. Do not display large amounts of cash in public places.
7. Trust your gut instincts. If someone or something seems suspicious, leave the area immediately.
8. Safeguard your hotel room. Even if your hotel has strong security measures in place, there are steps you can take to make your room safer. Lock and deadbolt the door and keep your windows shut. Try to give the impression that you’re in your room even when you’re away, such as placing the Do Not Disturb sign outside your door and keeping the blinds or windows closed. Don’t let any strangers into your room, even if they say they work for the hotel. You can always call the front desk to check whether someone was ordered by hotel staff to come to your room.
9. First Aid. The First Aid station is conveniently located on the Grand Concourse – Level 2.5, near the FedEx Office. It is wheelchair-accessible and open during published event hours, as well as during Exhibitor move-in and move-out. The station is staffed by licensed medical professionals and is fully equipped, including automated external defibrillators (AEDs), to promptly respond to life-threatening emergencies.
10. Plan for an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings. Know where the nearest exists are located. Use the buddy system. Exchange contact information with another meeting attendee. In the event of an emergency, agree on where you will meet up. Call for help if your buddy doesn’t meet up at the agreed location within a reasonable amount of time.
11. See something, say something. If you see something that raises a safety or security concern, please say something. If at the Convention Center, call security at 312-791-6060 from your mobile phone or extension 6060 from the closest McCormick Place “house” phone.