Wisconsin Ag Connection - Harsdorf Calls for Continued Farm Safety Awareness

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Harsdorf Calls for Continued Farm Safety Awareness
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 10/17/2018

Though National Farm Safety Week was celebrated over a month ago, Wisconsin's agriculture secretary says farmers and motorists should be just as careful as wet and cool weather has pushed back the fall harvest season. Sheila Harsdorf released a memo this week asking farmers to put safety first when they hit the fields again this week.

"With the delayed harvest and extensive rains, I know farmers are eager to get the crops off the fields, but remember to put everyone's safety first--yourself, your family and your employees," Harsdorf says. "Don't take risks. If you have equipment breakdowns or other things that slow you down, don't let frustration take over and lead to rash actions. Take a breath and think before you react. Let's have a safe harvest."

Harsdorf, who is a longtime farmer herself, reminds equipment operators to get enough sleep, eat regularly and take necessary breaks. She also said it's important to wear appropriate safety gear and make sure tasks are age-appropriate and that workers are trained.

It's also a good idea to keep a first-aid kit and other safety supplies in field vehicles and farm buildings. And if possible, avoid driving farm equipment on highways in early morning and early evening when commuters and school buses are on the road.

"So as you put in long hours harvesting the crops this fall, take time to be careful. Let's have a safe harvest," she says.

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