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Safety Rules & Code of Conduct  

By entering the event site, you also agree to the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 Code of Conduct on interacting with each other, which is part of the broader Safeguarding & Awareness concept to ensure a safer, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone – regardless of gender, origin, ability, sexual orientation, religion, or age. It goes beyond general safety rules and addresses interpersonal respect, prevention of discrimination and harassment.

See Code of Conduct

Safety Rules

All spectators must behave respectfully toward staff, volunteers, athletes, and fellow spectators. Courtesy and cooperation are always expected. Spectators should avoid disruptive or inappropriate behavior and comply fully with all instructions issued by security personnel, event staff, and public authorities. 

Venue infrastructure must also be respected: walkways, staircases, and emergency exits must be kept clear at all times. Do not climb onto barriers, seating structures, or restricted areas. Blocking visibility for others—e.g. by standing unnecessarily, holding large banners, or using loud instruments—is also discouraged. 

Filming or taking photos for personal use is permitted, but commercial or unauthorized media recording (especially in athlete areas or restricted zones) is prohibited. 

Misconduct includes any behavior that compromises the safety, dignity, or experience of others. This includes: 

  • Verbal or physical harassment of other spectators, staff, volunteers, or athletes 

  • Aggressive behavior, threats, or intimidation 

  • Discriminatory speech, gestures, flags, tattoos, or signs (racist, sexist, xenophobic, etc.) 

  • Being under the influence of drugs or excessive alcohol 

  • Attempting to access restricted or non-public areas without authorization. 

  • Throwing objects, starting chants of a discriminatory or inflammatory nature 

  • Vandalism, graffiti, or damage to venue property 

  • Refusal to follow instructions from authorised personnel. 

  • The purchase of tickets for the purpose of financial gain or commercial resale is prohibited and is reserved for the organiser and/or the authorised provider. 

Spectators are responsible for their own behavior. Parents and accompanying adults are expected to supervise children and other persons under their care to behave appropriately throughout the event. 

In case of violation of the general safety rules, code of conduct or event guidelines, security personnel are authorised to take immediate action. Consequences may include: 

  • Verbal warning 

  • Ejection from the venue without refund 

  • Confiscation or deactivation of the ticket 

  • Notification of local authorities and possible legal action 

Severe misconduct, such as physical assault or hate speech, may result in police involvement and legal prosecution under German law. All spectators share responsibility for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful event atmosphere. Non-compliance will not be tolerated. When in doubt, follow the directions of security, staff, and volunteers, remain calm, and help foster a positive experience for all. In the unlikely event of an emergency, the safety of all spectators, staff, volunteers, and participants is the highest priority. Each venue has been designed with robust safety systems, emergency services coordination, and clearly defined clearance procedures. 

Spectators are expected to remain calm, alert, and cooperative in any emergency scenario. The following guidelines explain how to act in specific situations. 

If an emergency occurs, follow these principles: 

  • Immediately follow instructions given over the venue’s loudspeaker system, video screens, or by staff. 

  • Do not run or push — maintain calm and help others around you. 

  • Keep all walkways and exits clear. 

  • If you're separated from your group, go to the nearest Info Point or approach a security staff member. 

  • Avoid filming or broadcasting emergencies to allow professionals to manage the situation without interference. 

Clearance:  If clearance is necessary, exit in an orderly fashion through marked emergency exits. Follow signage and instructions. Do not return to your seat or try to retrieve lost items.  

Severe Weather (e.g. thunderstorms, heatwaves):  Announcements will be made in the venue and on the Games Time App. In case of lightning, all outdoor activity may be paused. Move indoors or to sheltered areas. For extreme heat, hydrate regularly, seek shade, and follow heat safety instructions. 

Fire or Structural Danger:  Alert a nearby workforce manager or security guard. Move away from the affected area and proceed to the nearest emergency exit. Avoid using elevators or obstructed paths. 

Crowd-related Incidents (e.g. overcrowding, stampedes):  Move sideways out of any pushing crowd — never against it. Stay on your feet, keep arms at chest height, and avoid picking up dropped items. Listen for real-time instructions. 

If you witness or experience an incident: 

  • Notify security officer, safeguarding & awareness team or member of staff  

  • Go to the nearest Info Point or Safer Spaces, marked clearly on venue maps. 

  • Use the Games Time App to access emergency updates. 

  • In serious cases, emergency services will be dispatched by venue staff. 

All venues are equipped with trained personnel and emergency medical services to ensure immediate response and coordination. 

Emergency Contacts 

Central Emergency Numbers (Germany) 

If you are off-site or outside the event perimeter, you can always contact public emergency services directly: 

  • Police: 110 

  • Fire Department / Medical Emergency: 112 

These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone in Germany, including international phones. 

First aid staff are on duty at all event venues to provide first aid assistance and emergency care to participants and spectators.  

In the event of injuries or other acute medical concerns, please approach the on-site first aid staff. If you cannot find or identify the first aid staff yourself, seek help from volunteers.