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Harvest Safety
Farming is a dangerous occupation, both to adults and children. It is one of the only occupations where children are allowed to accompany their parents to work. Death and serious, permanent disability from farm injuries is common, yet farming has very few safety regulations. Economics and lack of available childcare are cited as reasons for children being present during farm operations and working on farms. Often the only prerequisite to operating a tractor is being able to reach the pedals! Tractors cause the most common fatalities of farm children; augers, tractors and PTOs are the most common nonfatal injuries. Safety measure must be followed and taught to children. FACTS:
In the event of an accident in the field, it is important to remember that long hours of delay can greatly reduce the chances of recovery. Farm families should have a regular communication plan in place, communicate with the person who is in a remote location on a regular basis, and plan a regular check-in time. Consider practicing an ambulance phone call, knowing how to give your location description. All family members should be familiar with disengaging or inactivating the various pieces of farm equipment utilized. Precious time can be lost trying to decipher control panels and mechanical equipment. It is recommended to assemble a field first aid kit. Store items in an airtight container such as a coffee can with a lid or sealable plastic bag. Items to include:
Always remember safety first, and have a good harvest season. Annette Johnson, ARNP Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and |
Our beautiful fall season has arrived. It is an exciting time of year for our farmers; to begin harvesting crops after watching them grow all summer. This is a good time to remind our farming community to proceed with caution. With time constraints, and the stress and fatigue involved with harvesting crops, this can be a peak time for agricultural-related injuries and death.