Safety Tips and Resources

Boston welcomes millions of visitors each year, and the safety of its residents and guests is a top priority. Below are some general safety reminders and additional information on safety resources available throughout the city.

General Safety Tips for Attendees

All in-person attendees are encouraged to follow these general safety guidelines when traveling:

• Share your travel itinerary with someone you trust.
• Travel with a buddy throughout the city.
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Remove your Annual Meeting badge when away from the convention center.
• In case of an emergency, dial 911. For Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (MCEC) security and first-aid services at the convention center, dial 617-954-2222 or extension 2222 from a house phone or go to ASTRO Registration, located in the North Lobby, and have a staff person contact security.

Here are some additional tips and resources from the Boston Police Department to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience in Boston.

Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center

Security personnel and Public Safety staff are present throughout the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (MCEC) to help ensure a safe environment for all attendees. Please be sure to have your ASTRO meeting badge visible at all times when inside the convention center.

Security Screening

To help ensure a safe and secure experience for all attendees, the MCEC conducts security screening for all visitors upon entry into the facility. Attendees will walk through a screening system and may be asked to undergo additional screening, including bag inspection, if needed. We recommend allowing a little extra time when arriving at the convention center.

In Case of Emergency at the Convention Center

The MCEC Public Safety Department provides on-site support for a wide range of situations, including medical emergencies, evacuations and incident response.

• Emergency procedures are in place for fire, medical incidents, severe weather and other unexpected situations.
• Clearly marked evacuation routes and rally points are located throughout the facility.
• Public Safety officers coordinate directly with local police, fire and EMS services.

In any emergency:

• Remain calm and follow instructions from Public Safety personnel.
• Proceed to the nearest exit or safe area if directed.
• Do not re-enter the building until cleared by authorities.

In the event of an emergency, call MCEC Public Safety by dialing 617-954-2222 or using a house phone (extension 2222). The MCEC Public Safety Command Center operates 24/7 and will coordinate response efforts with local emergency services.

If you need assistance, you may also visit ASTRO Registration, where staff can help contact venue security.

Prohibited Items

To help ensure a safe environment for everyone, weapons and other dangerous items are not permitted at the convention center. This includes firearms, knives, Tasers, stun guns, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, outside alcohol and any item that may pose a safety risk or disrupt the event.

This policy applies to all attendees, exhibitors, contractors, staff and guests. Firearms are prohibited, including for individuals with a permit to carry. Exceptions are limited to authorized law enforcement personnel and individuals specifically approved by the facility.

For more information about this policy and public safety at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center, visit the convention center website.

Boston Police Department

Boston Police officers are regularly on patrol throughout the Seaport District and surrounding convention areas. Attendees can expect a visible and proactive public safety presence throughout their stay. For emergencies, call 911.