ST. CLOUD, Minn. — I have had numerous conversations where clients have expressed how much they have valued raising their family on their farm. Kids have the opportunity to take on responsibility, learn the value of a dollar, and be out in nature. Those skills and experiences unquestionably have value, but the farm can also be a dangerous place. About one-third of all farm accidents involve children. In this article, I will share several possible talking points for your farm safety conversation with your child.
Farms typically consist of fast-moving machines, heavy tools, livestock, or any combination thereof. A way to increase your child’s awareness of these potential hazards is to talk with them. What do you, as the parent, classify as dangerous areas on the farm? A possible list of hazardous areas could include machinery, livestock, grain bins, and chemicals. Naturally, the list will vary from farm to farm and may be longer on your operation. The next step after identifying dangerous areas is to ask your child what they can do to keep themselves safe. Remember, this conversation may be complex and lengthy but could play a significant role in keeping your family safe.
Children can be eager to help and learn new skills. Though we as supervisors want to foster and cultivate that enthusiasm, this should prompt some reflection. Have you considered the age and development of the child? Are they physically big enough for the task? These factors can work together to help you make the decision “this task is age-appropriate.” If they are just a little bit too young, you can always say, “Maybe next year, buddy.”
An action step we can take as caretakers of youth is to keep an eye out. Asking questions like “Who’s watching the kids” or “where are Jesse and Alex” will help keep kids safe. Over half of child injuries on farms happen to children who are not working but are simply in the vicinity of dangerous activities. You’re not being over-protective or controlling, you’re simply ensuring that they are safe.
Remember, safety first!
The information for this article was compiled from University of Minnesota Extension, “Farm Safety for Youth” linked here (https://extension.umn.edu/farm-safety/farm-safety-youth). Residents of Stearns, Benton, and Morrison counties can direct questions to either my email (adam1744@umn.edu) or call my desk phone at (320) 255-6169 x 3.
— Dana Adams, University of Minnesota Extension
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