Poison Oak Safety Tips

Thank you for volunteering with the Trail Center. Due to the ubiquity of poison oak (PO) in the San Francisco Bay Area, assume that PO is present at all trail builds. Here are some steps to avoid it and what to do after you are exposed to it, i.e. cleanup after the fact…

1. Barrier cream, or lotion of any kind, applied to exposed skin surfaces will reduce PO effects. Don't forget your wrists and knees… Sock gauntlets worn over the wrists can reduce the chance of exposure.
2. Plan to use a restroom before arriving at the trail build site to reduce chances of exposure to highly sensitive skin surfaces. Keep possible contamination in mind when using restroom during the day.
3. Assume PO is on all tool handles. Wear gloves whenever you touch tools!
4. While trail building, watch where you stash your backpack, water bottle, jacket, etc. "ID" that PO before setting your things down!
5. Bandanas are good for reducing the need to wipe your forehead. Practice putting on and removing gloves without touching the outside…
6. In case of contact, apply Tecnu; follow directions completely (i.e. rub Tecnu on skin for two minutes before rinsing off)
7. A few layers of newspaper on your car seat will save having to wash it.
8. Wash your car steering wheel and door handles on the inside and outside.
9. Wash your clothes ASAP (separately!). Wash the machine by running an empty load w/soap on high water.
10. Shower - don't bathe - with cool water first, lather thoroughly, then use warmer water and soap again. Liquid dish detergent may reduce the chance of reaction.

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