Sow Safety, Reap Peace of Mind: Your Farm's Top Priority

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Farming, while rewarding, is not without its dangers. Amidst the demanding hours and challenging conditions, it's crucial to prioritize safety to protect our farming families and workers. The Missouri Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with partners such as MU Extension and statewide agriculture groups, is leading the charge through the Show-Me Farm Safety Committee. Together, they aim to provide education, resources, and tips to enhance farm safety and reduce injuries and fatalities.

The "Farmsafety.mo.gov" website offers valuable resources to address five key areas of farm safety:

1. Farm Equipment: Implement safety measures when using equipment, especially tractors. Tractor rollovers are a common cause of injury, so buckle up with seat belts and ensure PTO shaft shields are in place. Stay alert to avoid entanglements.

2. Grain: Never enter a grain bin while it's being loaded or unloaded, as the force of flowing grain can be overwhelming. Dangerous gases inside the bin can be harmful, so always take precautions and wear respiratory protection.

3. Livestock: Exercise caution around animals, as they can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Be mindful of protective mother animals and ensure an escape route is available during feeding time.

4. Youth: Involve children in farm work responsibly, teaching them about safety. Teach them to stay away from machinery, chemicals, and hazardous substances. Outfit children with helmets when riding horses or ATVs and never allow them to ride on tractor fenders.

5. Environmental: Environmental safety is essential too. Protect yourself from ticks, mosquitoes, and sunburns, as they can carry diseases and pose health risks.

Apart from physical safety, it's crucial to safeguard mental health, especially during challenging times like drought and high input costs. The AgriStress Helpline (833-897-2474) provides a confidential space for producers to talk about the stresses of farming and seek support.

Educating the youth about farm safety is equally vital. The "Gearing Up for Safety" curriculum, developed in partnership with Purdue University, equips Missouri educators to teach young people about farm safety. Completing this training may qualify teenagers for certification in operating tractors and hazardous machinery.

By adopting safety practices and promoting mental well-being, we can create a safer and healthier agricultural community, preserving the legacy of farming for generations to come.