NC DOT /Green Saves Green
Safety Rules & Guidelines

• Choose a time and location: Your neighborhood, public park, field, school or church grounds, city sidewalk, county roadside or waterway.
• For families with children under 12, we suggest picking up litter in a public park, sports field, or around a church or school, NOT on a roadside.
• Wear a safety vest or bright, reflective clothing.
• Wear clothing that covers arms and legs.
• Wear sturdy shoes or boots, gloves, and a hat.
• Bring plenty of water with you.
• Park vehicle clear of the roadway and on the same side of the road where you are working.
• Face oncoming traffic when picking up litter and look up often to ensure no vehicle is encroaching your work area.
• Pick up litter only during daylight hours.
• Stay well clear of any construction.
• Be alert for snakes, stinging insects and poisonous plants.
• Avoid contact with noxious weeds and areas where herbicides were applied.
• Dispose of your trash bags of litter at a county trash collection center near you.

Do Not:
• Pick up trash on the road surface.
• Pick up trash on bridges, on overpasses or in tunnels.
• Pick up trash on a median.
• Pick up what appears to be hazardous material or any type of container with unknown contents (notify NCDOT maintenance office if you encounter hazardous objects).

Litter Pick Up Tips:

• Have at least two trash bags: One for waste and one for recyclables.
• Carry a 5-gallon bucket when you are picking up litter. When full, transfer contents to waste or recyclables trash bag.
• A grabber or rake works well to get litter out of ditches.

In Case of Emergency:
• Have an adequate first-aid kit on hand.
• Have transportation immediately available.

Thank you for participating safely!