VOLUNTEER SAFETY TIPS

Personal safety while on an assignment is of primary importance. You cannot help others if you become injured yourself. This sheet gives personal safety information which will help you stay safe during your volunteer experience.

• Avoid placing yourself in hazardous situations: If a situation looks dangerous, avoid it! Report the circumstances immediately to your supervisor.

• Always remember Safety First: Always conduct yourself in a safe manner. Make sure you have appropriate clothing and equipment for your assignment.

• Be calm and keep a positive attitude: Your reactions to situations will affect the reactions of others around you. A calm and positive demeanor will be helpful not only to you, but also to those around you.

• Be Alert: Many safety problems can be avoided by being alert. If you spot a problem, inform your supervisor immediately.

• Be aware of your surroundings: If you are working around heavy equipment or debris, be aware of what's going on around you. Remember, a heavy equipment operator may not be able to see or hear you. Take special care to avoid being injured.

• Wear appropriate clothing: While in the field, you should always wear appropriate clothing. Long pants, a shirt, sturdy shoes (preferably boots), a hard hat, goggles, and gloves are all strongly recommended.

• Think ahead about evacuation: Always keep evacuation routes in mind. You should have one route for each compass direction.

• Avoid power lines: Power lines can be dangerous when they come down. Always assume they are electrified. Never try to drive over or through downed power lines.

• Take care of yourself: Try to eat nutritious foods. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and sugar. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol or drugs.

• Recognize stress: Some of the symptoms of stress include agitation, irritability & anger, disorientation & confusion, and apathy & dispair. Elevated stress levels can even lead to physical symptoms.

• Understand Critical Incident Stress: If you or a co-worker encounters an extremely stressful event such as a death, or a life threatening event, contact your supervisor and N.E.S.T. Command/Communications immediately.

• Don't attempt a job you are not qualified for: Working beyond your abilities can lead to stress and possible injury. Don't be afraid to say "No."

• FOR ANY EMERGENCY, CALL 911: If the 911 system is not operational, your supervisor will advise you of emergency call procedures.