Hotel Safety

• Use the hotel safe for valuables such as extra cash, passports, laptops and jewelry.
• Always lock your room and use the security latch when inside.
• Don’t open your hotel door to someone you don’t know. Call the front desk to verify any staff member who comes to your room unexpectedly.
• Keep your hotel’s name, address and phone number handy in case you get lost or need to direct a driver.

Out and About: Staying Street-Smart

• Don’t wear your convention badge outside the venue. It signals that you’re from out of town and may make you a target for scams or theft.
• Stay in well-lit, populated areas. Stick to main streets and avoid shortcuts through alleys, side streets or parks after dark.
• Walk confidently and with purpose. Avoid distractions like looking at your phone while walking. If you need to check directions, step into a store or lobby.
• Carry only what you need for the day and leave extra credit cards or valuables in your hotel room safe.
• If approached by panhandlers or aggressive individuals, avoid engaging and keep walking.

Transportation Tips

• Use NFDA shuttles when available; they’re the most direct and secure option to and from McCormick Place, partner hotels and other event venues.
• Use only licensed taxis or trusted rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Confirm the driver’s name and vehicle before getting in.
• Avoid flagging down random drivers or accepting unsolicited rides.
• Sit in the back seat of rideshares and share your trip status with a trusted friend or colleague if you’re traveling alone.

General Awareness

• Be alert in crowded areas like train stations, restaurants and tourist attractions; pickpockets target distracted visitors.
• Keep your bag or backpack close to your body, ideally zipped and in front of you.
• Leave unnecessary jewelry or expensive accessories at home.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation and seek help or a safe place like a hotel lobby or restaurant.

Emergency Prep

• Save important contacts in your phone: hotel, NFDA office and a travel companion.
• Learn the location of nearby police or fire stations or ask your hotel concierge.
• Download the NFDA Convention app for maps, shuttle info and emergency updates.
• For urgent emergencies, dial 911; for non-emergency help in Chicago, dial 311.

A little preparation goes a long way. Chicago is a vibrant, world-class city with much to offer. Staying alert and taking simple precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable NFDA Convention experience.