Litter cleanup “Safety First”
Simple steps to help the planet while staying safe. Wear a mask and gloves. Use gloves to keep yourself safe from physical contact with litter (and to prevent cuts and scrapes). “Do your part” by wearing your face mask. Avoid touching your face.
Avoid personal injury. Only pick up litter that you can individually manage. Report finding any hazardous materials for their safe removal. Secure the collected litter in closable plastic bags or a trash containter with a lid. Reduce handling and transfer of the materials collected.
Stay energized/hydrated. Clean and disinfect your hands and any food/water containers touched by others (including refillable containers with spigots). Keep in mind single-use gloves are not effective unless changed prior to each activity.
Observe social distance. Keep a minimum of six feet away from others, (unless you live with them) while picking up litter. As shelter-in-place orders are lifted, the need for physical distancing is critical to stem off a resurgence of COVID-19.
Clean and disinfect. If you used any litter collection equipment, e.g. litter grabber or bucket, wipe with a disinfectant cloth. Carefully remove gloves and other protective clothing. Sanitize vests, reusable gloves, etc. in washer with regular detergent. Wash and sanitize your hands.
