Safety Checklist

Scouting

Most safe practices on the river are just good common sense. Come prepared to have fun, because you will, but keep a sharp lookout always for hazards. You may be in an unfamiliar setting and here are a few tips to make your day go by safely.

Before You Go

  • Wear a hat, long pants and sturdy footwear.
  • Bring sunscreen. Gloves are provided, but sometimes we run out early.
  • Don't bring pets, cameras, radios or anything you might lose on the water.
  • A light backpack or "fanny" pack is good to carry water, sunscreen, etc.
  • Eat a good breakfast. You will be working hard.
  • Take provided bottled water and drink lots of it. Take a spare bottle if you want.
  • Bring your own PFD or "Life Jacket" if you can. We provide as many as we can, but if you want to wear one while cleaning up on the bank, bring your own.

In The Boat

  • Always wear a PFD in the boat and on the barges. Wear it properly. Ask if you don't know how.
  • The boat operator is the BOSS of the boat. Follow his/her instructions in and around the boat.
  • Leave your PFD with the boat. We do not have enough to have everyone wear one on the bank and they tend to get left in the woods. If you feel you need one on shore, bring your own to the cleanup.
  • Keep your hands in the boat, especially when alongside another boat, dock or barge.
  • Sit Down and be aware that the operator has to be able to see over or around you.
  • The operator has his hands full with his/her job. Try not to distract him/her.
  • Enjoy the ride!

On The Riverbank

  • Stay aware of the members of your crew. You must provide your own safety net out there.
  • Pick a spot near your drop off point for a rally point. Bring the bagged trash there and center it next to heavy objects.
  • Don't try to move extremely heavy or hazardous material. Roll tires, appliances and barrels to remove mud before trying to move to the riverbank. Get help for heavy things
  • Watch for Poison Ivy, stinging nettles and other hurtful plants.
  • Leave ALL wildlife alone. They are in their place and YOU are the guest.
  • Drink more water. Then drink more water. That's enough!
  • If someone is injured, follow first aid practices. Keep the injured person quiet and have someone flag down a passing boat for help. Apply a compress to limit bleeding if necessary.
  • Report all injuries to cleanup leaders as soon as possible. We will make sure they are attended to.
  • NEVER enter the water to retrieve trash or to cool off, except in an EMERGENCY. If it isn't readily removable, leave it! The deepest water is often very close to the bank and dirt at the edge can be unbstable. NEVER walk on a brush pile over water.
  • Regroup periodically and take a head count. Report missing people ASAP.
  • Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, put them in the water immediately and DO NOT LEAVE THEM ALONE. Get help as soon as possible.