Media contact:
Misti Preston
Phone: (573) 751-8596
Misti.Preston@mda.mo.gov

For Immediate Release: September 15, 2006

Safe Farming, Make it a Year-Round Commitment

Director of Agriculture Encourages Safety for Missouri Farmers

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – National Farm Safety and Health Week begins Sunday, Sept.17 and the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) would like to remind producers of the importance of using safety precautions when farming not only during this week, but all year long.

“Life on the farm poses many risks to farm families creating a need for awareness that safety is the first priority for all farms,” said Fred Ferrell, director of MDA. “Producers need to remember that daily activities such as working with livestock, riding a tractor and performing other maintenance chores are common causes of farm injuries.”

Agriculture continues to be one of the most hazardous industries in the U.S. and while most farm accidents are preventable, over 700 farmers and ranchers die each year from work-related accidents. Agriculture ranks as the most dangerous industry in Missouri.

“Our fall harvest is well underway and this is a great time to remind Missouri producers to practice safe farming practices to keep themselves and their families safe,” said Ferrell. “We must set a good example through our safe practices for our children to follow when they transition into farming.”

The department offers the following safety tips to assist in keeping farmers and their families safe:

• Get plenty of rest during long work periods and take frequent breaks.
• Never allow extra riders on tractors or let underage drivers operate farm vehicles.
• Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling jewelry when working with farm machinery.
• Make sure that all equipment is in proper working order.
• Discuss safety issues as a family and determine age-appropriate farm chores.
• Take the entire family on a walk to identify potentially harmful situations.
• Make sure chemicals are clearly marked and are stored in secure, locked places.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Learn first aid and keep emergency numbers handy.

National Farm Safety and Health Week, Sept. 17-23, 2006, is an annual promotion from the National Safety Council commemorating the hard work, diligence and sacrifices of our nation’s farmers. For more information and to learn more about farm safety, visit MDA’s Web site at www.mda.mo.gov.

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