Helpful Information

Our volunteer's safety is important to us. That's why all volunteers are provided with the items that they need for collection:

• Hi-Visibility Vests
• Gloves (not latex)
• Litter Pickers
• Pool Rakes (for stream cleanups)
• Brightly-colored Trash Bags

Timing

• Check the weather report before you head out to your cleanup event.
• Park vehicles in a safe and legal parking area that doesn't obstruct traffic.
• Consider scheduling your litter cleanup during daytime hours when the traffic is relatively light.

• Always wear sturdy work or garden gloves and wash your hands afterward.
• Be prepared to encounter poisonous weeds like poison ivy or sumac which can cause skin irritations.
• Put your provided Hi-Visibility vest on before you start collecting and always face traffic as you work so drivers can see you. 
• Wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, socks, and sturdy boots or shoes. 

• Always designate a leader to keep track of volunteers and cleanup details.
• Avoid horseplay to ensure your safety and that of others.
• Provide at least one adult supervisor for every group of six young people under eighteen years of age. 

• Always work in pairs
• Apply insect repellent before entering wooded areas or working near water. 
• Do not step into high vegetation and stay alert. These areas are home to poisonous plants, snakes, and other wildlife. 

• Dangerous or unsafe litter includes razor blades, syringes, hazardous household products, dead animals, condoms, all unlabeled jugs, bottles, and drums. 
• If you encounter dangerous litter, make a note of the location and contact the City of Manassas at 703-257-8256. We will work together with the City of Manassas Environmental Task Force to investigate and resolve the incident as soon as possible.