Special to the Farm Bureau Spokesman (News Release)

Here's a checklist of jobs you can do now, before the rush to the fields this spring. They'll help make this busy season safer and save time, too.

• Check the condition of work shoes, especially the soles, for signs of wear or slippage. Make sure everyone who will be helping in your operation this spring has adequate footwear.
• Locate a good pair of everyday work gloves for everyone who might be working in the fields this spring. Make sure the gloves fit well and provide a good grip and protection against cuts and scrapes.
• Inspect hydraulic hoses on all tractors, field cultivators, disks, planters and seed bed conditioners. Look for cracks, fatigue and other signs of wear that could indicate a greater risk of hydraulic failure. Replace hoses if necessary.
• Check the condition of hitchpins on all tractors and implements. Make sure each hitchpin has a retainer clip.
• Wipe all slow-moving vehicle signs (SMV) with a clean, damp cloth to make sure they're visible to other motorists. Make sure SMV signs are properly mounted on tractors and implements that will be traveling slower than 25 miles per hour on public roads.
• Make sure lights on equipment are in working order, especially if you will be traveling after dark.
• Check the fluid levels on tractors and perform other routine maintenance.
• Find the operator's manuals for tractors and equipment. Review the safety section in each manual and train other seasonal employees.
• Locate jacks and safety stands for equipment so that they'll be available when adjustments and other maintenance is performed during planting season.
• Determine whether you have the proper clothing and equipment to transport and apply anhydrous ammonia and pesticides. Make sure this gear is in good repair.