
"Hello, Conservation Explorers! Before you begin reporting wildlife, helping with cleanups, or earning volunteer credits, there is one thing you must always remember: YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST. No report, photo, or animal is more important than you!"

Before you begin reporting wildlife, helping with cleanups, or earning volunteer credits, there is one thing you must always remember: YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST. No report, photo, or animal is more important than you. As a conservation explorer, you'll be observing and documenting Florida's wildlife and waterways, and that means putting yourself in environments that can be unpredictable. This lesson covers the golden rule of citizen science, water safety, wildlife safety, environmental hazards, how to handle illegal activity, trap safety, and how to be a responsible conservation explorer. By following these guidelines, you help protect Florida's wildlife, waterways, and communities while ensuring everyone returns home safely. Conservation starts with awareness, but safety always comes first!
