Top 7 Tips for Safe Outdoor Volunteering During COVID-19
Lots of people want to contribute to their communities and volunteer in the outdoors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are the top 7 tips for safe outdoor volunteering during COVID-19, part of a free online safety training module available through Nature Groupie / UNH Extension:
1. Don't volunteer if you are sick.
The most important. Volunteering can wait!
2. Avoid carpooling.
Normally we are all about limiting our impact by driving together, but that is not an option now. Only drive with other members of your household, and meet other volunteers at the location.
3. Keep 6 feet away from others.
Social distancing applies to outdoor volunteering as well. Stay 6 feet away from anyone not in your "group" that you came with.
4. Have a mask on hand at all times.
Even if you think you'll be volunteering alone, there is a chance you'll encounter another person. Make sure to have your mask handy to put on.
5. Bring your own food and drink.
BYOB. And remember you might be out in the field for a little while, so make sure to bring plenty of water and food for the day.
6. Bring your own hand sanitizer.
An easy and important solution to making sure you don't spread the virus amongst your group.
7. Don't share tools or supplies.
Try to bring enough tools or supplies for yourself throughout the day, or ask your volunteer coordinator for extra if there are not enough.
More COVID-19 Safety for Outdoor Volunteering
Nature Groupie, as part of the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, offers a short online training module for any person looking for safety training for outdoor volunteering. The training is free, and offers a Certificate of Completion to anyone completing a short survey after watching a 12.5 minute training video.
