b'accessibilityaccessibility features or let you knowCommunicate across multipleareas to consider. Make sure that what other accommodations will helpplatforms, like telephone, email andappropriate tables are available for them participate. printusing at least 12-point sansthose otherwise unable to manage serif fonts such as Arial or Verdanahigher bar-style tables and chairs, CHOOSE THE PROPER VENUEto ensure that your guests receivesuch as wheelchair users. When considering the venue, look forthe information they need and areAsk volunteers to offer assistance options that have accessible parking,able to provide information back in aor seated service to guests with a large drop-off area and are easilyconvenient manner. disabilities. Offering light-weight accessible by public transportation.beverage containers with lids and Once on site, the public access pathsPRESENTATION PRECAUTIONS straws as well as pre-cut food items need to be well-maintained and freeOn event day, the meeting or eventcan also be helpful for people with of barriers.room should provide clear, easy-to- limited manual dexterity. Little details read signs. Make sure that the floorlike providing bendable straws as space is clear of obstacles and thatwell cups with handles can make all ACCESSIBILITYany necessary cables or wiring arethe difference for people who have secured. Chairs should be providedlimited use of their hands. SHOULD BE near registration and ticket tables, andIf its a buffet-style event, be sure to volunteers should be on stand-by toplace food, drinks and utensils in easy assist where required. reach for wheelchair users, and avoid TOP-OF-MIND In presentation rooms, makethe use of long tablecloths or table space up front for those who mightskirting that can get caught in wheels FROM THE be lip reading. Visual elements,or tangled with canes and crutches. like presentations or physicalFinally, collect information about GET-GO INdemonstrations, can be augmentedallergies and dietary needs and work by audio descriptions. Includewith the catering provider to eliminate ORDER TO MAKEcaptions for all videos, and if visualscommon allergens, properly label are accompanied by captioningfoods, effectively distribute special YOUR EVENTor sign language interpretation,meals, avoid cross-contamination and provide attendees with the videodesign a plan to respond to potential THE ENJOYABLEscript or captions ahead of time.medical emergencies.If presentations include handouts,Some attendees might use a ensure that those documents areservice animal. Providing a water bowl EXPERIENCE THAT accessible or have an accessibleis a nice touch to make those guests alternate formatlike braille or largefeel welcome, but its also important to IT SHOULD BEprint, for instanceand ensure that alldesignate a relief area for the animal images include an alternative text.and let guests know where it is. FOR EVERYONE. Remind speakers that the hostsThe needs of your guests will vary wish to make the experience as your event may not require all of accessible as possible; ask them tothe above accommodations, or you Once attendees are inside, theyuse the microphone, speak slowly andmay find that you require something may need accessible washrooms.describe images that are projectedentirely different. But accessibility Depending on the event, its possibleon the screen during ashould be top-of-mind from the get-that nursing mothers will need apresentation. Its also ago in order to make your event the private area, and parents with infantsgood idea for hostsenjoyable experience that it should may need changing facilities or aand presentersbefor everyone.family washroom. Gender-neutralto be aware washrooms may also be necessary tothat staying accommodate everyone regardless ofon schedule gender identity. is important so For the meeting space itself,that people who use consider attendees who might havespecialized transportation visual or hearing impairments. Chooseservices are able to leave a space that is properly lit and hasthe event on time.good acoustics with minimal echo.Once the venue is chosen, makeDIETARY RESTRICTIONSsure that your attendees are awareWith food and refreshment of the available accommodations.service, there are a number of 18 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS corporatemeetingsnetwork.ca'