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How to Keep Your Family Safe on the Farm This Summer
Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in the U.S., this is largely due to the fact that farmers put in countless hours each day, work around large equipment and machinery, and handle livestock. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, farmers, ranchers and other agricultural managers have the sixth most dangerous job in America.
There are many things farmers can do to safeguard themselves on a daily basis - this is especially true during the hot summer months. Summer is a time when many farm children work alongside their parents so it’s equally as important to remind them of the dangers associated with farming and working around livestock.
Here are 5 summer safety reminders for the entire family:
1. Don’t play in grain bins. Grain bins can be a very tempting playground for children. It’s important to remind your children of the potential dangers of playing in grain bins.2. No Seat = No Rider. Unless the vehicle is designed for and has proper seating for multiple riders, children should understand the potential dangers associated with unsafe riding on all vehicles.
On the topic of vehicles, ATV safety is very important. Riders should always wear protective gear, ride the vehicle appropriate for their size and ability and drive sensibly to avoid injury.
3. Protect Yourself from the Sun. Farmers, as well as, children may spend long hours outside in the hot summer sun. Although it can seem as an annoyance, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of wearing sunscreen, hats and even long sleeves to protect your skin from damaging rays from the sun.
4. Drink lots of water and take frequent breaks. I know it seems like a no brainer to drink lots of water when working outside but sometimes it’s easy to overlook when you get busy. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, farmers and ranchers are 20 times more likely to die of heat stroke than any other U.S. employee.
5. Work smart around animals. Working with livestock can be a rewarding job but can also be potentially dangerous. If your children are helping work livestock this summer, take a few minutes to remind them how to safely work with livestock. Being aware of their behavior can make the job more successful and keep everyone out of harm’s way.
The only way to prevent an accident or even death on a farm is to stay educated and pass that knowledge along to other members of your family. There are many other potentially dangerous situations that happen on the farm. For more safety tips for your family check out these resources provided by Farm Bureau.
Lynzee Glass, Director of Communications
Lynzee Glass has always had a passion for agriculture. Lynzee grew up in a small southwest Missouri town on her parents’ beef cattle operation. Her true appreciate for agriculture was developed during her involvement in FFA (Future Farmers of America). Lynzee attended Missouri State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications. After graduation Lynzee worked as the managing editor of Ozarks Farm and Neighbor newspaper, a regional livestock publication, where she had the opportunity to share the stories of Ozark farmers. Throughout that time, Lynzee was published over 100 times. Under her direction as managing editor, Ozarks Farm and Neighbor was award first-place in newspaper- general excellence by the Livestock Publications Council. She has also been recognized in the industry for her writing and photography skills.
Today, her role as Director of Communications gives her the opportunity to continue working in agriculture. Lynzee oversees the website, social media, event planning, marketing and advertising.
When Lynzee is not at the office she can be found volunteering within her church, serving as the marketing chair for Missouri State University Darr School of Agriculture Alumni and spending time with family and friends.