SAFETY BEST PRACTICES

The American Rental Association (ARA) prioritizes the safety and well-being of all attendees and exhibitors at The ARA Show, aiming to provide a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone in the equipment and event rental community.

To support this commitment, ARA is sharing the following safety tips to help attendees confidently navigate The ARA Show 2026 and maintain a safe environment.

SAFETY TIPS

In public places

Only wear your show badge while attending The ARA Show or one of the show events. Wearing your badge outside The ARA Show could alert would-be thieves or criminals that you are a tourist.
Always be mindful of your belongings. Thieves look for opportunities in busy places with distractions such as crowds or retail areas.
Be aware of your surroundings when using your phone in public. Do not give thieves the chance to run up and steal your phone out of your hand.
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry while walking around Orlando to prevent drawing unwanted attention.
Keep your purse close to your body, in front of you, with the opening facing inward. Ensure it has a secure closure, such as a zipper or snap, to reduce the risk of theft. Do not hang your purse over the back of a chair. Men should carry their wallets in their front pocket.
Know where you’re going. Get a map or use an app and be sure to plan your route ahead of time.
Ignore panhandlers.

At a hotel

When checking into the hotel, review the floor plan on the back of your room door and familiarize yourself with fire and emergency exits.
Avoid keeping your hotel room key card inside the hotel-provided envelope that includes your room number. If you lose the key card and envelope together, someone could gain access to your room.
While by the pool, do not leave your room key or any valuable unattended.
Don’t open the door unless you know the person. If the person claims to be an employee, call the front desk and ask if they have sent someone to your room.
Give kids a hotel business card to help them remember the name, address, and telephone number of the hotel where they are staying.
Always lock your door using the deadbolt.
Secure your sliding glass door or room connecting doors with all security devices provided by the hotel.
Place all valuables in the deposit box or room safe.
Be wary of unsolicited business flyers left at your hotel door. Always check with the hotel before placing any outside room orders that require your credit card number.
When you leave, check the room’s front door to ensure that it is locked.
If you see something suspicious, call 911 immediately and the hotel management.

Alcohol and partying can create risky situations

Do not accept any beverage from someone you just met, except for bartenders and wait staff.
Only go out with people you know and trust, return with the same people and do not leave anyone behind. Be careful who you invite to your room.
Avoid giving your hotel room number to anyone you meet while out socializing.
Do not leave your drink unattended. If you can’t take your drink with you, then get a new one. Don’t drink anything that has an unusual taste or appearance.
If you feel dizzy, disoriented or physically uncomfortable, notify a friend or an employee to call for medical assistance.

Sources for tips: Orange County Sheriff’s Office and Instore Magazine

CONTACT

If you are being harassed by someone or feel threatened, please notify security which will be on-site at the Orange County Convention Center during The ARA Show or call the Orlando police.

For issues on-site at the Orange County Convention Center
Call 407-685-1119

Non-Emergency
321-235-5300

Emergency
Immediately Call 9-1-1