Adopt-a-Forest Guide
This guide is also available for download in word or PDF format.Contents - Safety
Safety is very important when working on a cleanup. Always be prepared
for emergencies and make sure everyone involved has reviewed safety procedures prior to
working at a cleanup site. It is best to always work in groups.
Remember: BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY.
Personal Protective Equipment
When protective equipment is worn, chances of getting through work without an injury are
much greater. Improve your success as an Adopt-a-Forest volunteer with the proper
protection. See section on What to Bring and Wear.
Horseplay
Horseplay on the job is very dangerous and the person endangered isn't just the one that
is horsing around. Other people are involved. Reactions of human beings are not entirely
predictable. Their reactions to a joke might range from a laugh to a punch in the nose,
depending on what mood they're in. Help protect your security and theirs through
"horsesense," not horseplay.
Slips and Falls
Beware of tripping hazards. Tools laid on the ground, trash, sticks, and piles of leaves
may cause you to fall.
Lifting
Lifting incorrectly can result in a variety of
injuries. Back strain is very common. Proper lifting method:
- Stand close to the load with feet apart to lift
- Bend knees, keeping back as straight as possible
- Get a firm grip on the load and make sure your vision is not blocked.
- Test lift load to be sure you are capable of picking it up without
straining. If not, ask for help.
Lift using leg muscles, not back muscles.
Driving
Ensure your vehicle and trailer meet all Secretary of State requirements.
Trailers in Michigan now require permanent license plates. Make sure all blinkers
and brakes are working before traveling.
Drive safely. There is no hurry when working on
cleanups. Heavy loads may cause your vehicle to handle differently than
normal. These loads will also increase braking distances. Loosely loaded
objects may shift in turns. Unsecured debris may blow out of the vehicle while
driving, so use a tarp. Use flagging if items extend over the truck or trailer bed.
Fire Hazard
Be aware of current fire danger conditions. Always be careful
when smoking. Fully extinguish and properly dispose of your cigarettes. Do
not dispose of newly extinguished cigarettes in bags or dumpsters full of trash.
Also remember that sparks from mufflers and excessive heat from your vehicle's
undercarriage could ignite a fire in dry conditions.
Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion occur from being exposed to high
temperatures and from exposure to the sun, especially on calm, humid days. Heat stroke is
dangerous--get emergency help FAST!
Heat stroke symptoms include:
- Very high temperature with hot, dry skin
- Rapid breathing and pulse; the victim may appear confused
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and even coma are possible
First-aid for heat stroke:
Immediate professional help is important, but until help
arrives: Move the victim to a cooler area
Remove excess clothing
Sprinkle water on the person or fan the body for cooling
If victim is awake, give them small sips of water
Heat exhaustion symptoms include:
- Body temperature is near normal
Heavy sweating is noticeable
Other symptoms may include dizziness, weakness, stomach cramps,
nausea,
vomiting, rapid heart rate, and blacking out.
First-aid for heat exhaustion:
Relocate to a cooler area
Victim should lie down and, if conscious, sip water
Never give the victim alcoholic beverages, tea, or coffee.
If there is any doubt of a rapid recovery, see a doctor at once.
Stinging Insects
Seek emergency medical help if the victim has a history of serious
reactions to stings or if a serious reaction develops.
Be aware of surroundings and listen for buzzing. Stay alert, especially when
disposing of old stuffed furniture which may be the residence of bees; or cinder blocks
and appliances which are preferred nesting areas for wasps. Watch for yellow jacket nests
(usually in the ground) and be sure not to bump into a gray paper nest of the tree
dwelling bald-faced hornet.
Wear insect repellent for mosquitoes and black flies. If you are allergic to insect
stings, be sure to have appropriate first aid material with you. Make sure your coworkers
know what to do for you in case of an emergency.
Avoid wearing strong perfumes, particularly floral-scented
ones. Wear light-colored clothing as opposed to dark or brightly colored clothes
which seem to attract bees and wasps.
If chased by a swarm, escape to a body of water and remain submerged
until they leave. If no water is available, place your hands and forearms across
your head to protect your eyes, throat and neck. Move away quickly and quietly, as
agitated movement and noise can irritate the insects and evoke further attacks.
Do not leave opened cans of sweet drinks standing around. Always check before
drinking from an open container, even if it only contains water.
Snakes
There are 18 species of snakes found in
Michigan. The only venomous snake is the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake.
Status: Special Concern, it is
protected by the State of Michigan and is a candidate for federal listing.
Range: Entire Lower Peninsula.
Habitat: During spring, Massasaugas
use open shallow wetlands or shrub swamps. During summer, Massasaugas move to drier
upland areas. Look for them “sunning” in open fields, grassy meadows, or
farmed sites.
Behavior: Massasaugas are sluggish,
slow moving snakes. They are generally considered unaggressive; it is unusual for
the species to strike unless it is directly disturbed. Although the venom is highly
toxic, fatalities are very uncommon because the species’ short fangs can inject only
a small volume. Small children and people in poor health are thought to be at
greatest risk.
Description: Massasaugas have thick
bodies with colors that range from gray to brown. Its back has large, dark brown
blotches with smaller, lighter brown patches on its sides. Young Massasaugas are
similarly marked with brighter coloration. This snake has a wide triangular head and
eyes with slit-shaped pupils. Adults can be 18” to 30” in length.
Young Massasaugas have small yellow buttons or “rattles” at the tip of their
tail. Adult “rattles” are grayish yellow, like pieces of corn kernels, on
top of dark rings. Snakes may bite to protect themselves.
Look-Alike Snakes: The Eastern milk
snake and Eastern hog-nosed snake are harmless. A hog-nose snake will flare its
head, coil, and may strike.
Rattlesnake Etiquette:
- Keep your distance
- If you hear a rattle or buzzing sound. STOP! Look, but
don’t move—the snake may be close to you. Slowly move away after the snake
has been located. Do not pick it up or kill it.
- Report all sightings and location of Massasauga rattlesnakes to a DNR
wildlife office. Include a photograph if possible.
If a snake bite occurs:
- Stay calm.
- Move away from the snake.
- Try to remember what the snake looked like.
- Notify someone of your bite; sit down and limit your movements.
- Go the nearest emergency room/hospital for treatment.
- If a pet is bitten, immediately notify your veterinarian.
Poison Plants
Poison Ivy, Poison Sumac, and Nettles are very prevalent on public lands. Click
here for identification and treatment
Wildlife Click
here for more information on wildlife
Hopefully you will be able to see a variety of wildlife while you are working on your
cleanup. While these animals appear to be cute and cuddly, their actions are
unpredictable. Do not attempt to approach or otherwise disturb any wildlife. They are
thankful that you are cleaning up their habitat.
Hazardous Materials
Be particularly careful while handling hazardous materials such as paint, oil, antifreeze,
grease cutters, drums of liquid, etc. Do not let any of this material touch your skin. Do
not inhale any fumes that may be present. Remain upwind. Refer to Hazardous Waste for additional information.
Use caution when handling broken glass, sharp objects, and so on.
Do not attempt to pick up hypodermic needles or medical waste--contact the local health
department and tell them the location.
Do not attempt to remove explosive materials such as unexploded ammunition or
dynamite--contact the local authorities for removal.
Methamphetamine labs have been found on public land. Watch
for these materials. If found, leave in place
and report to the Michigan State Police Methamphetamine Investigation Team at
989-732-7588.
Do not confront people you see dumping!
Your personal safety is very important to us. If you
happen to see a person dumping, DO NOT APPROACH THEM. If you are able to get a description
of the vehicle (type, color, make, approx. year) and/or a license plate number, turn it
over to the local authorities (Sheriff, Conservation Officer, or Forest Service Law
Enforcement personnel).
Contents
Program
Background
How to Adopt-a-Forest
How to Organize a Successful Cleanup
Sample Flyer
What to Bring and Wear
Field Tips
Safety
Financial Support
Trash Disposal
Contacts to Make
Follow-up Suggestions
Progress Report
Frequently Asked Questions
Make a Donation
Acknowledgments
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