Almost 15 percent of farm accident victims are under 10 years of age.
Farm children live in the midst of a workplace that exposes them to heavy machinery, dangerous chemicals, livestock, and numerous other hazards. It is adults’ responsibility to do everything in their power to isolate youngsters from the major risks.
- Activities involving farm equipment must be off-limits to children. And why do we still see kids riding on tractor fenders or the lap of a tractor driver? In virtually every farm community, there is a story about a child falling under the wheels of a tractor.
- Dangerous equipment materials should be inaccessible. Anything children might use to harm themselves or others should always be kept out of reach.
- Know where children are at all times. This can be difficult if both parents have to join in the work, but young children must be supervised.
- Practise safety. Have you ever set down a chemical container for “just a second” and ended up leaving it for several hours?
- Set a good example. When children start to help out on the farm, they will follow your example. If you work safely, so will they.
- Educate. Even small children can learn the rudiments of safety, such as which areas of the farm are “off limits.” As they get older, kids can learn why certain things are dangerous.
- Don’t ask too much. When youngsters do begin helping with farm work, proper training is essential. Keep the child’s limited strength and experience in mind.
- Farm Safety Association
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