Litter Picking near a Waterway Safety Checklist
Before you start, we recommend following this simple guide to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s really important to complete a risk assessment that meets your community group’s policies—and follow any advice it gives. If you need help with this, you can download a [template risk assessment here].
Keeping Your Volunteers Safe – Top Tips
Make sure your volunteers:
- Dress for the weather – Warm layers for cold or windy days, waterproofs for rain, and loose clothing with a hat when it’s hot and sunny.
- Use sunscreen and wear hats – Even on cloudy days, the sun can catch you out.
- Are easy to spot – Everyone should wear a high-vis vest so they can be seen clearly.
- Take care on tricky ground – Watch out for slippery or steep surfaces.
- Avoid scratches – Stay clear of nettles, brambles, and thorny hedges. Have a first aid kit handy just in case.
- Stay hydrated – Bring along refillable water bottles to keep everyone refreshed.
- Stay away from roads – Volunteers should steer clear of busy roads for safety.
- Check tide times – If you're doing a beach clean, know where it’s safe and when.
- Don’t touch hazardous materials – That includes needles, medical waste, or dead animals. Leave these and report them if needed.
- Supervise children and vulnerable adults – Make sure they’re looked after at all times.
- Stick together – Work in small groups and agree on a time and place to meet back up. Group leaders should carry mobile phones in case of emergencies.
- Be mindful of health risks – If there’s an outbreak of Coronavirus or a similar illness, group leaders should follow current government advice. That might mean smaller group sizes and keeping a safe distance.
Keep It Safe, Fun and Impactful!
By taking a few simple precautions and planning ahead, your clean-up event can be both safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. Whether you're tidying a park, a beach, or your local streets, every action helps protect wildlife and keep our communities beautiful. Thank you for making a difference!
Want this as a printable handout? Download it here