Adopt-a-Park Program Safety Tips

Follow these Adopt-a-Park Program tips to make sure your volunteer experience is a safe one.

Do

• Begin with a review of safety procedures.
• Wear proper clothing and protective gloves when picking up litter.
• Stay within your designated project boundaries.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Drink water often and take breaks on a regular basis.
• Report damaged signs or dangerous conditions to 703-228-6525.
• Have a first aid kit on hand for small emergencies.
• Call 911 immediately if anyone is seriously injured.
• Use a dust pan and broom to sweep up broken glass.
• Supervise youth under the age of 17 at all times.
• Have fun.

Don’t

• Don’t pick up litter in a road, close to the edge of a road or narrow medians.
• Don’t pick up broken glass, hypodermic needles or other medical waste with unprotected hands.
• Don’t pick up liquid or semi-liquid blood, soiled clothing or articles. Report the above items to the Parks & Natural Resources Division at 703-228-6525.
• Don’t work in inclement weather.
• Don’t try to pick up or move heavy tree limbs and objects.
• Don’t overexert yourself. Take breaks and drink plenty of fluids.
• Don’t participate under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.