Welcome to the Volunteer Safety Guidelines for the Andy for Governor campaign. Your safety is our top priority as you engage in various campaign activities.
As a volunteer, please keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
- Work in pairs or groups whenever possible, especially during outreach events.
- Keep your personal belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables.
- Familiarize yourself with the locations of emergency exits and first aid kits.
- Report any suspicious activity or concerns to a campaign coordinator immediately.
We encourage open communication. If you feel uncomfortable or need assistance at any time, please reach out to a team leader.
Thank you for your commitment to the campaign and for helping to create a safe environment for everyone involved. Together, we can make a difference!
Staying Safe While Canvassing and Working Events in Minnesota
Door-to-door canvassing and public events each bring their own practical risks, and a little preparation goes a long way. The points below build on the basics above and focus on situations volunteers commonly meet in the Twin Cities and across the state.
Before you head out
- Share your plan. Let your shift coordinator know your assigned turf, your partner's name and roughly when you expect to finish. Check in at the end of every shift, even if nothing unusual happened.
- Charge your phone and save the coordinator's number so you can reach someone quickly.
- Dress for the weather. Minnesota conditions change fast. In winter, layer up, wear boots with good grip and watch for icy steps and unshovelled walks. In summer, carry water, use sunscreen and take breaks in the shade.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and keep your load light. A small bag with literature, a clipboard and essentials is easier to manage than an armful of materials.
At the door
- Stay on the doorstep and never enter a home, however friendly the invitation.
- Respect posted signs such as "No Soliciting" or "Beware of Dog", and skip any property where you feel uneasy.
- If someone becomes hostile, thank them politely and leave. There is no need to win an argument; your goal is a respectful conversation, not a debate.
- Keep your partner in sight and agree on a simple signal for moving on.
At rallies and public events
Note where exits, restrooms and the volunteer check-in point are when you arrive. Stay hydrated, keep walkways clear of tables and cables, and direct any disputes or disruptive guests to event staff rather than handling them yourself. If there is a medical emergency, call 911 first and then alert a coordinator.
After your shift
Report anything that concerned you, from aggressive dogs to broken steps, so future volunteers can be warned. If you would like to sign up for another shift, visit the volunteer page, or check upcoming campaign events to plan ahead.
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