Agricultural Safety Awareness Week, March 5-11, kicks off the busy spring season in farm country.
“This is the time of year we’re moving livestock off wheat pasture, preparing fields for spring planting and getting equipment ready for wheat harvest,” said Oklahoma FarmBureau President Steve Kouplen. “It’s a hectic time on the farm that means long days in the field.”
Those long days can lead to fatigue, a leading cause of farm accidents. That’s why Oklahoma Farm Bureau’s Safety Services division is working with the state’s farmers and ranchers to highlight safety awareness.
Farm Bureau leaders in Alfalfa County will host a safety seminar Saturday, March 11 featuring demonstrations on a tractor roll-over and pinch point safety. The public is invited to stop by from 11 a.m. 1 p.m. at the Alfalfa County Fairgrounds in Cherokee. A free hamburger lunch is included in the activities.
“We want to remind agricultural producers to slow down, work in a safe manner repairing or replacing safety devices that protect them, their family and employees from injury,” said Justin Grego, Director of OFB’s Safety Services division. “After a long day on the farm, we want everyone to be accounted for at the dinner table, not in the hospital emergency room.”
Other safety events are planned throughout the state in March. For a complete list, go to www.okfb.org.
Agricultural Safety Awareness Week is part of the Farm Bureau Safety and Health Network. The network is made up of professionals affiliated with state Farm Bureaus who share an interest in identifying and decreasing safety and health risks associated with agricultural and rural life.
This year’s theme “Step Up to the Plate for Farm Safety” features Nolan Ryan, baseball Hall of fame pitcher, rancher and Farm Bureau member.
“Starting the season off right begins with careful preparation, “Ryan said. “Farmers, ranchers and baseball players alike must take the steps necessary to prevent injuries in order to have a truly productive season.”
Farm Bureau leaders understand the importance of focusing on safety.
“The annual agricultural safety event recognizes the rich tradition of America’s farming and ranching culture in producing the safest, most abundant food in the world,” Kouplen said.
This month is also the traditional time to celebrate Agriculture Day, March 22.
“Ag Day is the one day each year set aside to honor farmers and ranchers,” Kouplen said.
The Beggs rancher has a unique suggestion for the public.
“Take a farmer to lunch and tell him how much you appreciate the sacrifices he makes each day, producing our food and fiber,” he said.
