By Jacqui Witte, Field Team Manager
At America’s Grow-a-Row, we deeply value the safety and well-being of our volunteers and staff. Whether you’re helping harvest fresh produce or maintaining the fields, your safety is our top priority! We’ve implemented a range of measures to ensure that everyone stays healthy, comfortable, and safe while contributing to our mission of providing fresh food to those in need.
Dress for Success
One of the first steps in ensuring volunteer safety is making sure everyone is properly dressed for the field. When volunteering, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather and activities. We recommend wearing hats, sunglasses, and rain jackets to stay protected from the elements. Our volunteers work in various conditions, so it’s important to come prepared to get a little dirty too!
We also encourage volunteers to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to prevent injuries from uneven terrain or tools. Safety starts with being prepared!
Hydration and Nourishment
It’s vital to stay hydrated when working outdoors, especially during the warmer months. We ask all volunteers to bring a filled reusable water bottle, which we can refill throughout the day. In addition, we provide cooling towels to help combat heat during intense work periods.
Hydration starts ahead of time so before you head out into the fields, we recommend hydrating well in advance and eating a healthy breakfast to ensure you have the energy to keep up with the day’s tasks. Staying properly fueled and hydrated helps avoid fatigue or heat-related issues.
Protection from the Elements
Along with staying hydrated, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Volunteers should always bring sunscreen and bug spray to shield themselves from the sun and pesky insects. We provide sunscreen in the field as an added layer of protection, but it’s always helpful to come prepared.
First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
Safety is more than just prevention; it’s also about being prepared for any emergency. We provide first aid kits at each farm and our staff members are trained in CPR and emergency response. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are also available on-site to help ensure that we can respond to medical emergencies quickly and effectively.
Keeping Safe Around Equipment
At America’s Grow-a-Row, we work with heavy machinery and equipment, and volunteer safety around this equipment is essential. Volunteers are reminded to keep a safe distance from any working machinery. Proper signage is posted around the farm to keep pedestrians and equipment traffic separated, reducing the risk of accidents. In Pittstown, where our farm crosses streets, we even arrange for a police escort to ensure safe crossing for volunteers. This extra precaution helps avoid potential traffic-related incidents.
Using Tools Safely
When working with tools, such as pruners, safety is paramount. We provide garden/work gloves for every volunteer, which are required when handling tools. These gloves protect your hands from injury and ensure that you can work safely and efficiently throughout the day.
Take Your Time and Pace Yourself
Volunteering at America’s Grow-a-Row is a fulfilling and rewarding experience, but it’s important to take your time and not rush. Pace yourself throughout the day to avoid exhaustion. Our staff members are always available to offer guidance and ensure that everyone works within their limits.
Secure Your Belongings
When volunteering at our farms, we encourage you to bring as few valuables as possible. However, we do provide baskets for volunteers to safely store keys, wallets, and other small personal items. This ensures your belongings stay secure while you focus on the important work at hand.
Volunteer Safety: A Shared Responsibility
Our commitment to volunteer safety is a shared responsibility between America’s Grow-a-Row and our amazing volunteers and staff. By following these guidelines, you help us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Your well-being is our priority, and together, we can continue making a difference in the lives of those who benefit from the fresh produce we grow and donate.
Thank you for being a part of our mission and for your commitment to safety!
