Health and Safety Policy

Last updated on Jan 8, 2025

The health and safety of all attendees, vendors, and staff at our event is our top priority. We’ve outlined guidelines below to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. By attending, you accept the inherent health risks of public gatherings and commit to supporting our community’s well-being.

Key Points (TL;DR)

  • Vaccinations: Not required but strongly encouraged.
  • If Sick: Stay home (e.g., flu, cold, COVID symptoms).
  • Masks: Mandatory in Dealers Den and Art Show. Encouraged elsewhere.
  • Fursuit Lounges: Open. Lounges will have general fans, water, fursuit repair kits and in the main stage lounge there will be a cold pack station. Do not use lounge fans for head drying (please use personal fans in hotel room).
  • Emergencies: Call 911 for life-threatening issues and then immediately call or text FurCons Emergency response team “FLARE” at (408) 837-0391 or visit the Marriott Silicon Valley Boardroom.

At any time you can also ask any FC staff member to assist you in finding help.

Policies

Vaccination Encouragement

  • Stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations to protect yourself and others.

Masking Requirements

  • Masks are mandatory in high-traffic areas. Such as Dealers Den and Art Show
  • Masks are encouraged everywhere else
  • Masks must fully cover nose and mouth.
  • Complimentary masks available onsite.

Hygiene and Sanitation

  • Hand sanitizer stations will be available. Frequent handwashing is encouraged.
  • High-touch surfaces will undergo enhanced cleaning.

Health Screening

  • Self-assess your health before attending. If symptomatic or exposed to COVID-19, flu or a cold, please stay home.

Social Distancing

  • Respect personal space and avoid crowding. Event organizers may implement crowd management as needed.

Compliance

  • Adherence to these policies is mandatory, including all attendees, vendors, and staff.
  • Non-compliance may result in removal from the event.

Exemptions

Masks may be temporarily removed for:

  • medical conditions (example: asthma)
  • eating and drinking

Please wear your masks again promptly. We are not accepting exemption requests.

Contact staff for assistance if needed.

FAQ

Where can I see COVID-19 statistics for San Jose, CA?

Santa Clara County Public Health Dashboard: Link

Are masks required even under fursuit heads?

Yes, in designated areas like Dealers Den and Art Show. Cloth or disposable masks must be worn under the fursuit head. Fursuit heads themselves do not constitute a mask, nor does a fursuit head “wearing” a mask.

Does this policy apply to minors?

Yes. Minors must follow all CDC-recommended safety protocols due to increased vulnerability to COVID-19 variants.

Where can I learn more?

Questions

For inquiries, email info@furtherconfusion.org.