Safety First, Avoid the Worst – Protecting Our Farms & Communities
posted by Darcie Follon on Monday, September 22, 2025
Safety affects us all – at home, on the road, and at work. On the farm, where long hours, heavy equipment, and busy seasons are part of daily life, the risks can be especially high. That’s why the message “Safety First, Avoid the Worst” is so important: by prioritizing safety, we can prevent injuries, illnesses, and even fatalities.
Why It Matters
Farm safety impacts everyone. We share roads with farm equipment, rely on local EMS and hospitals when accidents occur, and watch children and families grow up around farms. Injuries, stress, or illness on the farm ripple across families, businesses, and the local economy. Safe farming protects not only those who work the land but also our food supply and the well-being of our communities.
Key Safety Tips
- Check Equipment & Roads – Maintain machinery, use reflectors, and stay alert on public roads.
- Watch for Farm Equipment – Drivers, slow down and give machinery plenty of space.
- Prioritize Health & Wellness – Take breaks, stay hydrated, and seek support when stressed.
- Practice Confined Space Safety – Never work alone in bins, silos, or manure pits; use proper ventilation and safety gear.
- Use ATV/UTVs Safely – Wear helmets, follow guidelines, and avoid carrying passengers or speeding.
What We Can Do
Each of us can take simple steps to make a difference. Farm safety isn’t just about rules – it’s about protecting people, families, and communities. When we commit to putting safety first, we all benefit with fewer injuries, healthier lives, and stronger, safer communities.
- farming
- public health
- safety