Volunteer Safety Briefing Sheet

Town of [Your Town Name] Adopt-a-Highway Program
Volunteer Safety Briefing Sheet
Keep this sheet with you during all cleanups.

🚨 Safety First!

Your safety is our top priority. Please follow all guidelines below every time your group performs a cleanup.

✅ Before You Begin

• Hold a quick safety meeting with all volunteers.

• Assign a group leader to supervise and stay in contact with the Highway Department if needed.

• Confirm that all participants have signed your group’s liability waiver (if applicable).

• Make sure everyone is wearing:

  • High-visibility safety vests

  • Sturdy, closed-toe shoes

  • Gloves (recommended)

🚷 Where and How to Work

• Work only on the road shoulders and ditches—never walk in the travel lane.

• Face oncoming traffic whenever possible.

• Cross the road only at safe locations.

• Do not pick up litter in medians or near curves, bridges, or high-speed areas.

• Avoid leaning into the road or turning your back to traffic.

🛑 DO NOT Pick Up

Call the Highway Department immediately if you see any of the following:

• Syringes, drug paraphernalia

• Dead animals

• Chemical containers, fuel cans, or unknown liquids

• Sharp metal, broken glass, or car parts

• Large or heavy objects (tires, scrap, furniture)

Use the "See it, flag it, report it" rule.

💧 Personal Safety Tips

• Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.

• Use sunscreen and insect repellent.

• Be aware of poison ivy, ticks, and uneven ground.

• Keep your phone on you in case of emergency.

☎️ Emergency Contact

Town Highway Department Contact:
Name: ________________________
Phone: _______________________
Email: _______________________

Emergency? Call 911 immediately.

👍 After the Cleanup

• Leave tied trash bags at the agreed pickup spot.

• Do a headcount—make sure all volunteers are accounted for.

• Send a quick report to the Highway Department with:

  • Date and time

  • Number of participants

  • Approximate number of bags collected

  • Any issues or hazards spotted

🙌 Thank You!

Your time and effort help keep our roads clean, safe, and beautiful. The Town of [Your Town Name] appreciates your commitment to your community!

For questions or supply requests, contact the Highway Department at [town email or phone number].