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Guidance to help you stay safe
Here are some general instructions and safety items that we recommend when holding a Trail Tender event. Remember safety is always the top priority!
Before the Event
- Make sure you have scouted out the work location and are familiar with the area and the work to be done.
- Coordinate with the Trail Program Manager and local landowner any work that you plan to do.
- Have all tools and material ready to use.
- Communicate with your group the essential information of meeting location, time frame, work to be done, and any other critical information.
- Remind people to wear clothing that is appropriate for working outdoors. Everyone must wear close toed shoes. Long shirts and pants work best to keep off brush and sun. Bring a water bottle and a snack.
- Be in contact with the group if the weather looks bad. In case of severe weather cancel the event.
During the Event
- Make sure that everyone has registered as a volunteer online or fills out a paper form.
- Have everyone sign in to record their hours on the volunteer time sheet.
- Bring everyone together and explain the roles and tasks for the day.
- Make sure to give a safety talk. Remind everyone that safety is the highest priority.
- Be careful when working with tools or equipment. Never use a tool that you do not feel comfortable with.
- Be alert to those around you and the work that they are doing.
- Never put yourself in a dangerous position or risk injury to get work done. Your safety is more important.
- Communicate with others where, when, and what you are doing.
- Have a first aide kit available.
- Have more experienced people oversee and help others. Never let children work alone.
- Remember to take breaks for water and snacks as needed.
- Take photos of the work that you are doing. Before and after photos are great ways to document your impact.
- Make sure to thank everyone for their time and effort!
After the Event
- Make sure to submit a complete Trail Tender Report that documents the work you did.
- Turn in the completed volunteer time sheet to the Trail Programs Manager.
- Follow up with the local landowner or Trail Programs Manager about any important information.
- Communicate with the group a follow up thank you for their work.