COMMUNITY CLEANUP SAFETY TIPS

Thank you for registering to volunteer with Prince William Clean Community Council, PWCCC).  The PWCCC is dedicated to a cleaner Prince William County environment through litter prevention, environmental education, community involvement and to the quality of life of its citizens.  Some of the Council’s goals are, to preserve property values and neighborhoods; safeguard the safety and welfare of citizens; and, to promote community pride and stewardship.

We are happy to have you join in our efforts to keep Prince William County a clean, safe place we are proud to call home.  As a PWCCC volunteer, your safety is very important to us, please adhere to the following safety rules and precautions:

•Wear an orange safety vest - When involved in a street/community cleanup so you can be seen clearly and identified as a member of the cleanup team.
•Wear light or bright colored protective clothing, - Dress according to weather conditions and the type of work you are doing.
•Wear work gloves and hard-sole, close toed shoes – To prevent possible injuries, sandals or open toe shoes should not be worn.
•Work only during daylight hours and under good weather conditions – Visibility is very important when involved in street/community cleanups.
•Practice good safety habits – Look out for other members on your team and avoid distracting other volunteers while working.  Remember the purpose of the cleanup is the safe removal of debris.
•Drink plenty of fluids – all seasons of the year, it is important to stay hydrated.
•Rest when needed – do not overexert yourself, take rest breaks.
•Volunteers under the age of 15 years – must have adult supervision, 1 adult supervisor to 5 youth volunteers under age 15 is recommended for group activities.
•Hazardous materials – never handle hazardous material.  Call 911 to report potential hazardous waste material.
•Power Tools – power tools, lawn movers, tractors, chainsaws, etc. should not be used during cleanups.
•Alcohol or drugs – Do not participate in litter cleanups while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Construction sites – never pick up litter on a construction site.
•Peak traffic hours – schedule your cleanups during off-peak traffic hours.
•Large Objects – Never attempt to lift or move large object alone – always get the help from other team members.
•Sun Protection – Always protect yourself from the sun by putting on sun screen before and during cleanup.
•HAVE FUN – BE SAFE – LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER
• THANK YOU!