Watauga River Hurricane Helene Clean-up near Sugar Grove, NC 11/1

Join us on Friday, November 1st, for a Watauga River clean-up! We will meet at the clean-up site at 10 am, talk as a group, and then disperse along the river for trash pickup. This area needs a good litter sweep and we are also working to identify any hazardous or large debris items (cars, propane tanks, etc.).

Our team has limited waders, boots, gloves, N95 masks, and safety glasses. It is recommended that you wear long-sleeved pants and shirt, sturdy boots, and bring your own PPE just in case. Please be sure to bring water and a snack.

Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!

As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.

To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):

     ✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.

     ✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.

     ✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.

     ✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.

     ✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.

     ✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.

After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot. 

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

**All volunteer opportunities are subject to change based on weather and circumstances. Please be patient with our team and community as we all recover from the storm.**