Top safety tips for A’23

Conference news Fun
, by Dawn Scarola

General safety at Moscone Center & around San Francisco

Here are 10 tips to ensure your safety—and the safety of others—while enjoying San Francisco and attending A’23. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with AIA’s Event Code of Conduct and Health and Safety Policy, found here.

Safety tips

  1. We’re looking forward to seeing A’23 all over San Francisco! This sentiment, however, does not apply to conference name badges. Please remember to remove or conceal your conference badge while walking outside of the conference or conference events, as it can draw unwanted attention from strangers.
  2. Always keep valuable items, such as wallets, computers, and phones, in a safe place. This applies to your hotel, in Moscone Center, and walking around San Francisco, especially in crowded areas.
  3. Unattended bags may disrupt events and could be removed by police or other security services. Please don’t leave your suitcase or bag(s) unattended.
  4. San Francisco is one of the world’s greatest cities. Make time to explore—safely. Plan your route in advance and choose well-lit and busy streets to walk on. Avoid taking shortcuts through alleys or isolated areas, especially at night, and try to stay in areas where there are other people around.
  5. Always make sure your mobile phone is charged before you head out for the evening. Use your phone’s GPS to avoid getting lost or ending up in an unsafe area. Stay alert to your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable or notice suspicious activity, move away from the area or seek assistance from local police or security personnel.
  6. When you arrive, add emergency numbers to your contact list, like your hotel and local police. In the unlikely event of an emergency, you’ll already have them handy.
  7. Use trusted transportation services, such as taxis or ride-sharing apps, especially when traveling alone or late at night. Many ride-sharing apps let you share your trip status.
  8. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially when attending networking events, and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
  9. If you are traveling with a group, designate a meeting spot in case you become separated, and share your itinerary with someone trustworthy.
  10. Avoid using ATMs located in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night. Instead, use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers, which are often better lit and have security cameras.

Stay safe, have fun, and we’ll see you there!