Self-Guided Cleanups

If you can’t or don’t want to participate in an organized group cleanup event on September 18, you can still participate through a self-guided cleanup any time in September.

Self-Guided Cleanups (for printable version, click here)

To protect your health and slow the spread of the coronavirus, please follow the most recent Ventura County Public Health Orders here: https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/

Preparation

  • If you are sick in any way, DO NOT go out for a cleanup.
  • Assemble your own cleanup gear, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This should include trash bags or buckets, gloves, face mask, a trash grabber or tongs (if available), sun protection, and make sure to wear close-toed shoes to protect against sharp objects.
  • Download the Clean Swell app (available for free on all platforms) to keep track of what you pick up and how many people participated with you. If you do not have a device capable of using the app, you can download and print a data card in English or Spanish. Mail your completed card to the address on the card.

   Cleanup

  • Maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet from everyone you encounter, even if you are wearing a mask.
  • ALWAYS wear gloves – disposable if available – and dispose or wash them immediately after your cleanup.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Do not pick up sharp objects, especially syringes!
  • Don’t pick up anything too heavy or anything that you will not be able to fit into your home debris bin.
  • In parks and natural areas, follow all posted signage, stay on trails, and limit activities to areas open to the public
  • If you clean up a local beach or waterway, be mindful of the conditions (such as high tide, sneaker wave warnings, etc.), and be careful near the water’s edge.
  • Keep a safe distance from all wildlife!
  • Do not pick up or disturb natural objects, such as leaves, nests, or eggs.
  • Avoid over-exertion, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. When in doubt, come in early!
  • Unfortunately, you may find used gloves, masks, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) among litter. DO NOT PICK UP ANY PPE without a grabber.

After Cleanup

  • If possible, weigh or estimate the pounds of trash and recyclables you collected during your cleanup to report to your local coordinator or the Coastal Commission.
  • Dispose of trash in your home debris bin.
  • Dispose or wash gloves immediately after your cleanup. To properly remove disposable gloves, grab the glove opening near your wrist and pull towards your fingers, then turn the glove inside out before disposing.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly as soon as possible, and use hand sanitizer in the meantime if soap and water are unavailable.
  • Show us your cleanup! Post your pictures using our “Protect Your Happy Place” filter on Instagram and Facebook and see how your community is participating. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #coastalcleanupday and #protectyourhappyplace.

By participating you understand and agree that neither the State of California, County of Ventura, or California Coastal Commission may be held liable or responsible in any way for any injury, death, or other damages to you or your family, heirs, or assigns that may occur as a result of your participation, or as a result of product liability or the negligence, whether passive or active, of any party in connection with the cleanups.

Have fun and remember, safety first! Thank you for extending your care and compassion to our communities! Stay healthy.