Safety is a top priority for the Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF). We work closely with local, state, and federal agencies year-round to plan for a safe event.
The following is general safety information and not intended to be a comprehensive guide.
This page may be updated. Please check back regularly – contents are subject to change.
Emergency and Non-Emergency Contact Information
For all emergencies, contact Police, Fire, and EMS by dial 9-1-1.
For non-emergencies dial 3-1-1, or contact the Newport Beach Police Department directly at 949-644-3681.
A full list of Newport Beach Police Department Contacts can be found here.
Always exercise common sense and good judgment when traveling and attending events in Newport Beach for the Film Festival. Here are some ways to do that:
General Safety
- If you see suspicious activity, say something. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Look out for others. If you become aware of someone who is ill or needs assistance, inform a venue staff member or security, or contact police, fire, or medical personnel. In an emergency call 9-1-1.
- Carry details of any medications and allergies with you.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Don’t travel alone. Have a group/partner, identify a meeting place if you split up or let someone know where you are at all times.
- Write down or take a photo of where you parked your vehicle. Refrain from parking in tow-away zones. If the vehicle is towed make sure you have a copy of your auto insurance card or registration document with you to show proof. Tow companies will not allow you in a vehicle once it’s towed.
When you are at any venue:
- Know where you are.
- Take a moment to identify at least two exit routes from any building or event and emergency exit signs.
- If an alarm sounds, evacuate immediately. Follow directions from First Responders and venue staff.
- Do not carry any unnecessary valuables with you.
- Don’t leave drinks unattended or accept open drinks or food products from strangers.
Protecting your property:
- Make a note of your hotel address and store separately from other items.
- Never write your hotel room number on your room key.
- Make a note of the serial codes of any electronic devices:
- Support for finding your unique phone IMEI number can be found here.
- If parking, lock your vehicle and never leave valuables or personal items out in the open.
- If you lose property such as a purse or wallet containing credit cards, Driver’s License, Social Security cards, or passport, file a report immediately calling 311 and cancel cards immediately.
Enjoy your visit and when in doubt, in an emergency call 9-1-1.
Safety Resources
Suspicious Activity
Never leave your bags or possessions unattended. Unattended bags may disrupt events and could be removed, damaged, or destroyed by police or other security services.
Emergency Evacuations
In the event of an emergency evacuation, quickly and calmly find an emergency exit. Be aware of any hazards or dangers around you, and proceed to a safe area.
Follow the direction of venue staff, security personnel and First Responders.
Do not stop to collect your belongings. Doing so can put you and others in danger.
Open Carry/Weapons Free
NBFF has a weapons-free policy. More information on this can be found here.
Bag Searches – Travel Light; Leave Bags At Home
Bag checks and searches will take place on entry to many events and venues. Not carrying bags will expedite entry into venues.
If you do bring bags, we recommend bringing small or clear bags containing only essential items. Don’t carry unnecessary valuables with you.
Some events and venues may have stricter entry searches or prohibit certain items. Check with individual venues for their search policy.
Code Of Conduct
By attending or participating in NBFF, you agree to abide by the Code of Conduct.
NBFF may take action in its discretion to address any individual(s) or group(s) it believes fail to meet the standards set forth in this Code of Conduct, including but not limited to revoking the violating parties’ credentials without refund.
Please contact [email protected] if you believe you’ve observed or experienced a violation of this Code of Conduct, and NBFF will work to assess the situation and respond as soon as possible. Please remember that notifying NBFF does not constitute or replace a notification to local law enforcement.
If you have been victim of a sexual assault, contact the Newport Beach Police Department at 9-1-1.
Getting Around
More information on the best ways to get around Newport Beach can be found on our Travel Guide page.
At peak times, traffic may be heavy and transportation services very busy. We recommend making a plan for how you will get home before heading out.
Street Closures
The City of Newport Beach closes various streets during the Festival. To help navigate the closures, check back soon to see the street closures map.
For more information about the City of Newport Beach’s street closures during NBFF and/or how to obtain Barricade Access Vehicle Passes for commercial deliveries, etc., please visit the Travel Guide page.
Mental Health
Hospitals
Emergency Room closest to the area are: Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian 1 Hoag Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 764 – 4624
If you are outside the area, other hospitals may be closer.
In an emergency always dial 9-1-1.
Weather
The weather in Newport Beach during October can change rapidly. Make note of local weather forecasts and pay special attention to any weather alerts issued by the National Weather Service.
Details of any active alerts, along with a weather forecast for Newport Beach can be found here.
In hot conditions, remember to drink plenty of water.
If it becomes necessary to cancel or postpone any NBFF events due to inclement weather (such as lightning, strong winds or heavy rains) updates will be issued on NBFF Social Media Channels. We recommend following these before leaving home.
Advice for Touring Bands and Artists
The Event Safety Alliance has produced counter-terrorism advice for touring artists and their crew. A useful guide can be found here.
Accessibility/ADA
NBFF strives to make all events accessible for all attendees. We are continuing our efforts to improve the Festival experience to include everyone and welcome any feedback. Please contact [email protected] to submit your accessibility feedback.