FRIENDS OF THE PARKS PROGRAM
LITTER REMOVAL SAFETY GUIDELINES

Below is a list of suggestions from the Parks and Recreation Board and the Parks Department to help make your cleanup experience a safe one!

DO:

• Wear gloves and thick-soled, closed-toe shoes.
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
• Wear sunscreen and bug repellent.
• Dress appropriately for the weather.
• Drink plenty of fluids in extreme temperatures.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the potential hazards associated with them (e.g., passing cars, hazardous tree branches, poison ivy, etc.)
• Use the “buddy system”—work in teams of two or three to maximize safety.
• Keep pre-moistened towelettes on hand.
• Wash hands with antibacterial soap after the cleanup.
• Know emergency procedures, such as the location of the nearest emergency facility and how to quickly summon an ambulance or the police.

 DON’T:

• Pick up hazardous materials such as hypodermic needles, sharp objects, old car batteries, animal carcasses or other unidentified, questionable objects.
• Overstuff trash bags.
• Attempt to move large objects.  Report this information to the Friends of the Parks program coordinator, David Bottlinger at 972-468-4000 or dbottlinger@murphytx.org, for pickup by a Parks crew.
• Attempt to cleanup behind safety fencing with prior approval from the Parks Department.
• Conduct cleanups during extremely inclement weather.
• Conduct cleanups near or around construction sites.