Volunteer Pre-Start Checklist - Backpack Bed for Homeless Australia

Volunteer Pre-Start Checklist

Backpack Bed for Homeless (Swags for Homeless Ltd)
Version 1.2
— Effective Date: 01/03/2026

Complete this checklist before every letterbox distribution session. If you cannot tick every item in Sections A through D, do not head out until the issue is resolved.

Your Name:
Date:
Distribution Area (suburb/postcode):
Planned Start Time:
Planned Finish Time:

A: WEATHER

Do not distribute in extreme heat (35°C+), heavy rain, or thunderstorms.

Forecast maximum is below 35°C in my area.
No thunderstorm or heavy rain warnings during my session.

B: GEAR

Hat and sunscreen applied (SPF 30+).
Closed-toe footwear with good grip.
Bright or visible clothing.
Water: at least 1 litre per hour of planned activity.
Charity’s approved flyers — unaltered.
No headphones or earbuds while near roads.

C: PHONE AND SAFETY

Fully charged mobile phone with me.
Emergency 000 and Backpack Bed for Homeless 07 3286 9834 saved in phone.
I have told someone where I am going and when I expect to return.
My session is within authorised hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm or sunset, whichever is earlier.
Distribution is permitted in my planned area (or I have checked with the Charity).

D: KEY RULES — CONFIRM YOU WILL FOLLOW

Skip any letterbox with “No Junk Mail” or similar signage.
Never touch existing mail in any letterbox.
Never place materials in Australia Post red posting boxes.
Never enter properties with closed gates or “No Trespassing” / “Private Property” signs.
Skip any property where a dog is visible, audible, or suspected. Do not approach, feed, or pat animals.
Obey all traffic signals and pedestrian laws. Use footpaths.
Be polite. If someone is unhappy, apologise and move on. Never argue.
Comply immediately if a resident asks me to remove a flyer, then report it.
Do not collect money, solicit donations, or accept gifts on behalf of the Charity.
Do not represent myself as an employee, officer, or agent of the Charity.

E: AFTER YOUR SESSION

No incident occurred.
OR
An incident occurred and I have reported it (or will within 24 hours) to 07 3286 9834 or hello@backpackbed.org using the Incident Report Form.

Approx. Flyers Distributed:
Area Covered:

QUICK REFERENCE — IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG

SituationAction
Serious injury / assault / dangerCall 000 immediately.
Dog bite or animal attackMove to safety. Pressure on wound. Call 000 if serious. Report to Charity within 24 hours.
Heat exhaustion (dizzy, nauseous, headache)Stop. Shade. Water. Cool skin. If confusion or rapid pulse develop, call 000.
Confrontation with a residentDo not argue. Apologise. Move on. Report within 24 hours.
Resident asks to remove a flyerComply immediately and politely. Report within 24 hours.
Police or council interactionBe polite and cooperative. Note details. Report within 24 hours.
Property damage (even minor)Inform owner if safe. Report within 24 hours.
Any injury, however minorStop. Return home. Report within 24 hours.
Unsure if distribution is permittedStop. Call Charity on 07 3286 9834 before proceeding.

Emergency: 000 | Charity: 07 3286 9834 | Email: hello@backpackbed.org

You confirmed during online registration that you have read and understood this Checklist and agreed to complete it before every session. A printed copy is included with your flyer materials for convenience. If you have questions, contact us before heading out.

Thank you for keeping safe and for helping people who need it most.

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