Farm operators who may have grandchildren visit them this summer should take time to consider the risks, as well as the fun times, on "Grandpa's Farm".
Children who don't live on farms are at special risk because they may not be familiar with farm hazards. Although most children have difficulty anticipating danger, these children may be particularly vulnerable.
Designate well-defined play areas. Expect your young visitors to want to go outdoors. Before your guests arrive, determine where they can play safely, and discuss arrangements with their parents or guardians.
Ask your visitors what they would like to see and, if possible, accompany them to those places. Point out areas that are off-limits and explain the possible dangers.
Never allow visitors in a work area, such as around a feed grinder, unless equipment is turned off. Always accompany visitors in these areas.
Review basic safety rules with children and their parents or guardians. Offer visitors a chance to "sit in the driver's seat" only when the engine is turned off. Extra riders, especially those not used to rough terrain, are at extra risk on tractors and other farm equipment.
Visits to "Grandpa's Farm" can be educational, and give you the opportunity to present farming in a professional, safe manner.
This news release was distributed by Iowa State University Extension as part of the Safe Farm program. Safe Farm promotes health and safety in agriculture. It is funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Iowa State University, and a network of groups that serve Iowa farm workers and their families. Distribution date: July 1992.
Disclaimer and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission of the author and/or copyright holder. More
