Celebrating Earth Day: 6 Tips for Picking Up Trash Safely

If you’re looking for a fun way to both celebrate Earth Day safely and help your community, how about picking up trash in your favorite park or trail?

Even during a pandemic, you can do it safely – as long as you plan ahead.

Here are six tips for picking up trash safely:

1. Wear work gloves
2. Wash your hands when you’re done
3. Don’t touch your face
4. Tie back your hair or wear a hat
5. Wear a mask
6. Use tongs or a rake and shovel to pick up really gross things like an animal carcasses or personal hygiene items. 

“Picking up parks or trails is a great way to celebrate Earth Day,” says Tiffany Peterson, RN, Avera Director of Infection Control. “You don’t need to be afraid of COVID – just use common sense.”