Agriculture, one of the most dangerous jobs in America, is witnessing a rise in fatalities. To address this alarming trend, farm and ranch safety programs are being established nationwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 573 work-related deaths in agriculture in 2019, sparking concern among farmers and organizations.
Doug Sombke, President of the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU), highlights chemical and grain bin safety as the major concerns for local farmers and ranchers. These risks were once underestimated, but with a growing number of accidents and fatalities, people are now taking safety more seriously.
SDFU has taken proactive measures to promote farm safety, especially among youth. Their teaching programs include day camps, a farm safety quiz bowl co-hosted with South Dakota FFA, and hands-on safety experiences provided by a safety trailer.
Power lines, PTO shafts, augur safety, and other topics are covered at several locations in the fully interactive safety trailer. The program also covers general safety practices on the farm, addressing a wide range of potential hazards.
One of the pressing concerns addressed by SDFU is ATV-related accidents, which are becoming more common among rural and farm youth. An ATV simulator helps teach kids how to handle these vehicles safely, emphasizing the importance of safety equipment and proper riding techniques.
The focus on education extends to both youth and adults, with SDFU offering programs starting at age 6 and continuing through college. By increasing awareness and understanding the importance of safety, SDFU aims to protect farmers and ranchers from preventable accidents.
For more information about SDFU safety programs or to request the safety trailer at an event, visit sdfu.org.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: South Dakota, Business, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety