We want everyone to have a safe and gratifying experience while you help cleanup your Russian River! It is important to be aware of common safety issues involved with the handling and removal of trash in and near our River, Creeks, and Beaches.
Safety Information for All Cleanup Routes – EVERYONE READ!
- Your team Leader will review important Safety Information at your location, please listen!
- No one should be working alone. Work in pairs or with a team.
- DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP! DON’T LIFT HEAVY ITEMS ALONE!
- If you are injured: report to your Team Leader, they will have a First Aid Kit to treat you.
- Please Check–Out with your Team Leader so we know you aren’t lost or injured!
Things that everyone may encounter and will at all times need to be aware are:
- Trips and Falls (due to slippery, wet conditions, steep slopes, uneven ground, rocks, tree roots, heavy brush, etc.)
- Poison Oak/Thickets of Blackberry Bushes
- Bee stings/Ticks
- Broken glass, sharp metal and heavy water logged items.
- Sun exposure and possible dehydration
- Hazardous materials: Do not attempt to handle any of the hazardous materials listed below on your own. These materials need to be taken to special processing facilities using special handling protocols. Notify your Team Leader if these are found so it can be handled properly! These materials include: auto/marine batteries, containers and drums that may contain chemicals/waste, syringes and other biohazard wastes, heavy appliances and household furnishings, items that are dug into the river banks or river beds and cannot be easily removed. Gas cans, aerosol cans, and other containers with or without volatile materials or chemical residues, live ammunition or explosives.
Before you leave for the day:
- Please Check Out with your Team Leader before leaving so we know you aren’t lost or injured!
- Please turn in gloves, pick-up-tools, unused bags and other gear to your team leader
- Thanks for volunteering for the Russian River Watershed Cleanup and being SAFE!