Orlando Convention Center Leads Emergency Drill Efforts

Facility partners with agencies to test response plans for coordinated attacks

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:00am

The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando has become the first convention center in the U.S. to conduct a large-scale safety exercise, partnering with agencies like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Orange County Fire Rescue, and the Orange County Sheriff's Office to simulate a coordinated attack and test its response plans. From advanced security technology to coordinated crisis communication, facility leaders are preparing for the unexpected while keeping events running smoothly.

Why it matters

As facilities that welcome thousands of people, convention centers must prioritize safety and emergency preparedness. The Orange County Convention Center's efforts to lead the industry in this area set an important example for other large venues to follow.

The details

The Orange County Convention Center conducted a comprehensive safety exercise that simulated a coordinated attack, testing the facility's response plans and coordination with local emergency agencies. This included deploying advanced security technology and practicing crisis communication protocols to keep events running smoothly even in the face of unexpected emergencies.

  • The Orange County Convention Center became the first convention center in the U.S. to conduct a large-scale safety exercise.
  • The facility partnered with agencies like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Orange County Fire Rescue, and the Orange County Sheriff's Office to simulate a coordinated attack.

The players

Tony Camarillo

The general manager of the Orlando Convention Center at NFMT Remix.

Orange County Convention Center

A convention center in Orlando, Florida that has become a leader in emergency preparedness by conducting large-scale safety exercises.

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What they’re saying

“It's got to be the foundation they do their job on. It's something that I've been stressing since I walked through the door. Develop the relationships in your world, whether it's first responders or local government. Keep improving upon your guidelines so you can learn where your deficiencies are and where you can improve.”

— Tony Camarillo, General Manager, Orlando Convention Center

What’s next

The Orange County Convention Center plans to continue refining its emergency response plans and conducting regular safety exercises to ensure it is prepared for any potential crisis.

The takeaway

The Orange County Convention Center's leadership in emergency preparedness sets an important example for other large venues to follow, demonstrating the critical importance of comprehensive safety planning and strong communication with local emergency agencies.