Health & Safety Plan

INTRODUCTION: The safety and well-being of all attendees at ADHD2023 in Baltimore, Maryland, is of paramount importance. This safety plan outlines the measures and protocols in place to ensure a secure and comfortable environment for all participants. By adhering to these guidelines, we can collectively create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

COMMUNICATION: In case of any emergencies or safety concerns, please make sure you have downloaded the ADHD2023 conference app, as we will push notifications to attendees from the app.

Follow any instructions given by event staff, security personnel, or law enforcement.

COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS: Attendees are encouraged to stay home if they are feeling unwell, exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the venue for attendees to use regularly.

It is up to the individual attendee to choose whether or not to wear a face covering. Please respect each individual’s choice.

The conference will follow the most up-to-date guidance from health authorities regarding COVID-19 safety protocols.

FIRE PREVENTION: If the voice-automated fire alarm sounds, please follow hotel instructions and evacuate the building.

FIRST AID/CPR: The hotel has qualified first aiders/CPR on duty 24/7. In an emergency, call 911. Otherwise, pick up a house phone and dial “0” for assistance or visit the hotel front desk.

LOCAL MEDICAL INFORMATION:

Local hospitals:
  • University of Maryland Hospital | 22 S. Greene Street | (410) 328-8667
  • Mercy Medical Center | 301 St. Paul Street | (410) 332-9000
  • Maryland General Hospital | 827 Linden Avenue | (410) 225-8000
24-Hour Pharmacies:
  • Rite Aid | 250 West Chase Street, Baltimore | (410) 752-4473
  • Walgreen | 19 East Fayette Street, Baltimore | (410) 625-1817

SAFETY IN BALTIMORE: While Baltimore offers a vibrant and exciting experience, it's important that you take precautions when walking around the city, as you would any metropolitan area. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

  • If possible, avoid walking alone at night. Travel in groups or with a friend, as there is safety in numbers.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area you plan to visit during the day so you can better navigate it at night.
  • Stick to well-lit and populated streets. Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, including shortcuts through alleys or deserted streets.
  • Stay alert of your surroundings. If something doesn't feel right, trust your gut feeling and remove yourself from the situation.
  • Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables out of sight. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Do not wear your conference badge outside of the Hotel.
  • If you encounter aggressive individuals or potentially dangerous situations, it's best to walk away and seek help if necessary.

ACTIVE SHOOTER PREPAREDNESS: While it is our sincere hope that such an incident never occurs, it is essential to be prepared for any situation, including an active shooter scenario. Please familiarize yourself with the following guidelines.

Before the Conference:
  • Be aware of the locations of emergency exits and evacuation routes in all areas of the venue.
  • If you notice any suspicious behavior or individuals, report it to event staff or hotel security personnel immediately.
During an Active Shooter Situation:
  • Remain calm and alert.
  • If you hear gunshots or observe any indications of an active shooter, follow the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol:
    • Run: If it is safe to do so, evacuate the area immediately, moving away from the source of the danger. Do not use elevators.
    • Hide: If you cannot safely escape, find a secure place to hide. Lock and barricade doors, turn off lights, and silence your phone.
    • Fight: As a last resort and only if your life is in immediate danger, be prepared to fight back using any available objects or tools to incapacitate the shooter.
  • The ADHD2023 conference team’s main source of communication with you is through the mobile app, as a reminder, please make sure you have downloaded the app on your mobile device and enable notifications.
  • Follow any instructions given by event staff, security personnel, or law enforcement.

Remember, your safety is the top priority. If you are in an active shooter situation, your primary goal is to protect yourself and others around you. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with these guidelines and remain vigilant during the conference. In the unlikely event of such a situation, following these protocols could help save lives.

CONCLUSION: By following this attendee safety plan, we aim to create a positive and secure environment for all participants at the ADHD2023 conference in Baltimore, Maryland. Attendees are reminded to remain vigilant, respect safety guidelines, and take responsibility for their own well-being and the well-being of others. We appreciate your cooperation in making this event safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Questions or concerns, please contact conferences@chadd.org.
For sponsorship and exhibition inquiries, please contact kris@herlitz.com.