In
honor of this year’s National Farm Safety and Health Week taking place this
week, the Carle Center for Rural Health and Farm Safety has provided safety
tips for farmers of all ages.
- Children: Always get permission to visit a parent or adult while working on machinery, and remain in a visible area.
- Teens: Don’t use a cell phone when working; however, keep it close in case of an emergency.
- Adults: Keep the rollover protection structures in the upright position and always wear a seat belt to prevent a tractor rollover injury or fatality. Always wear hearing protection as well.
- Elderly: Take caution when lifting heavy items or climbing in unsafe areas, and recognize personal health and safety to avoid injury.
For
many long-time farmers, the safety and the dangers of agriculture are learned,
but often overlooked. “All it takes is one incident,” says Amy Rademaker,
farm safety specialist at the Carle Center. “It’s essential parents teach their
children that safety is important and necessary on a farm. On the flipside,
kids and grandkids are the most impressionable and are often the best at
reaching mom and dad.” For a full list of safety tips, click here.