Safety measures for picking up litter

• Car pool to the cleanup area. Minimize the number of vehicles in the area.

• Park all vehicles clear of the roadway. Ensure that vehicles are parked off the travel area. See that volunteers walk in the direction of oncoming traffic. Work on one side at a time, not both.

• Stop working during bad weather. Note hazards of rain, wind and dust, limited visibility and dusty conditions.

• Avoid over-exertion. Each person should know his or her capability. Be cognizant of heat stroke and exhaustion.

• Wear brightly colored clothing and approved safety vests.

• Don’t wear shorts or cutoffs. Wear pants. Use sun protection. Boots and or hard-soled shoes are recommended.

• Wear gloves and long-sleeved shirts to protect against cuts and abrasions.

• Use head protection against the sun, such as bright colored baseball caps. Avoid hats that will fly away with strong gusts of wind.

• Avoid hazardous substances. Do not remove materials such as suspicious containers or hazardous materials such as needles.

• Don’t allow any horseplay in the work zone. Constantly supervise children.

• Stay clear of construction zones.

• Do not enter roadway shoulders.

• Keep off bridges and medians.

• When crossing to opposite side, cross as a group.

• Emergency procedures: Have adequately stocked first-aid kits, plenty of antiseptics, transportation for major emergencies. At least one individual should be certified in first aid. Have plenty of drinking water on hand.

All volunteers must have a safety meeting before each cleanup. Wear bright colors and safety vests when possible. Beware of maneuvering trash bags – slinging them over the shoulder with sharp objects. Use traffic spotters when possible. Do the cleanup during daylight hours. Have a cellular phone if possible. Do not overload trash bags. Call your Adopt-A-Roadway coordinator to make arrangements for pickup of trash bags.