AgDARE - Agricultural Disability Awareness and Risk Education

Spinal Cord Injury - Supplemental Activity 2

Guest Speaker

Invite someone from the farm community that has a spinal cord injury as a result of a farming incident. The possibilities could range from minor nerve damage to paralysis. Give the speaker instructions prior to their presentation as to the points you would like them to discuss during their visit.

• Have them tell about the incident that caused the injury
• Discuss safety measures and equipment such as ROPS, seat belts, helmets, and other protection.
• Relate how life has changed for the individual since the accident (i.e. impact on lifestyle and future).
• Discuss farming practices and methods, since the incident, that prevent future injury.

Allow for open discussion with the class following the speaker's presentation, giving the students opportunity to ask questions or discuss farm incidents in which injury occurs.

Alternative Guest Speaker

Invite someone from the equipment manufacturing or sales area of agriculture to speak to your class concerning new safety innovations now standard on tractors and ATVs (and even lawnmowers). Many equipment dealers that sell tractors will be willing to speak briefly on new products and their company's innovations in safety and injury prevention. Have the class prepared to ask questions and encourage the guest to bring their promotional materials if they would like, such as pencils, decals, stickers, caps to give away, etc. Prepare the dealer to discuss cost of adding safety features, and why these are good investments. Be sure the dealer shares safety information that is available to the consumer (videos, brochures, training).

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