Safety

Invasive plant management can expose volunteers to a variety of hazards. Staying safe begins with awareness, preparation, and the right protective gear.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Know your exact location (park name, trail, or landmark).

  • Carry a first aid kit and cell phone.

  • In case of emergency: Call 911, then alert your event leader.

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Common Hazards

Environmental & Biological

  • Tick-borne diseases

  • Stinging or biting insects

  • Snake bites (Note: Copperheads are the only venomous species in Fairfax County)

  • Poison ivy

  • Thorns

  • Sunburn

Physical & Tool-Related

  • Slips, trips, and falls

  • Injuries from tools

  • Falling trees or branches (Never pull vines off trees — you could pull down a branch!)

  • Getting poked in the eye by a branch

  • Heat-related illness

  • Human encounters

Protective Personal Gear

Minimum requirements for all volunteers:

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • Long pants tucked into socks

  • Closed-toe shoes

  • Gloves (thorn-proof preferred)

Highly recommended:

  • Hat or cap

  • Eye protection

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent (with DEET)

Remember: Proper gear is your first line of defense.

Power Tool Policy

If you are volunteering for a Fairfax Tree Rescuers PRISM event, power tools are not permitted.

You may use power tools on your own property, but please review the following information carefully.

Power Tool Hazards

  • Chainsaws cause 30,000+ injuries and 250 deaths in the U.S. annually.

    • Most common cause: Kickback, which can occur suddenly.

  • Mini chainsaws, though smaller, can still cause severe injuries — avoid holding branches with one hand while cutting.

  • String trimmers can cause penetrating eye injuries.

  • Hedge trimmers can injure through entanglement or flying debris.

Safe Practice

  • Keep a safe distance from others when using any tool.

  • Inspect equipment before use and follow all manufacturer safety guidelines.

  • Wear protective eyewear, gloves, and sturdy footwear.