by: Charles V. Schwab, Don Goering, and Laura Miller

Agriculture is a unique industry because children can be exposed to potentially dangerous situations 24 hours a day. The farm is both a work and a home environment for many families. Without a separation between these two environments, children can be exposed to tremendous risks. However, care and guidance from adults can reduce the risks for children living on Iowa farms. In the United States last year, more than 300 children died in agriculture-related accidents. No other industry includes children in its injury and death rates. During 1991, the Iowa Department of Public Health recorded 559 farm-related injuries and 10 fatalities to Iowans under the age of 19 years. Many injuries to children are not directly related to their work or chores, and could have been prevented by planning and an active commitment to safety by adults.

THE FARM ENVIRONMENT
The Norman Rockwell image of a wholesome, safe atmosphere that surrounds agricultural production is far from reality. The hazards are diverse and relate directly to the operation. Potential hazards are associated with equipment, structures, and livestock. For example, grain often is unloaded by augers driven by tractor power take-off units in a work area near the farm living and playing area. Young children also may interact with livestock, which are unpredictable and can crush children. This publication deals with family safety rules. A carefully considered set of family farm rules are a necessity for young children and visitors to the farm; they also can be helpful for older children who have responsibilities on the farm. Tailor farm safety rules to your operation and family. One way to keep children safe on the farm is to create a safe environment for them. Although safety is a daily process, one way to strengthen your family’s safety rules is to

1. designate safe play areas;
2. determine other areas that might attract children;
3. identify dangers with children; and
4. model safe practices for children.

DESIGNATE PLAY AREAS
Identify locations where children can play without adult supervision. Designated play areas protect children by isolating them from the farm work environment. One play area might be the porch of the farm house and the surrounding yard. A fence will reinforce the division between the work and play environment. Try to provide appropriate play items, such as swings, a sand box, or playhouse, which make the play area appealing to children. If the farmstead is more enticing than the designated play area, your efforts may not be effective.

Tags: agriculture,children,farm,rules,safety
Categories: Farm and Field