Iowa State University Extension
Farm
operators who may have grandchildren visit them this summer
should take time to consider the risks, as well as the fun
times, on "Grandpa's Farm".
Children
who don't live on farms are at special risk because they may
not be familiar with farm hazards. Although most children
have difficulty anticipating danger, these children may be
particularly vulnerable.
Designate
well-defined play areas. Expect your young visitors to want
to go outdoors. Before your guests arrive, determine where
they can play safely, and discuss arrangements with their
parents or guardians.
Ask
your visitors what they would like to see and, if possible,
accompany them to those places. Point out areas that are off-limits
and explain the possible dangers.
Never
allow visitors in a work area, such as around a feed grinder,
unless equipment is turned off. Always accompany visitors
in these areas.
Review
basic safety rules with children and their parents or guardians.
Offer visitors a chance to "sit in the driver's seat" only
when the engine is turned off. Extra riders, especially those
not used to rough terrain, are at extra risk on tractors and
other farm equipment.
Visits
to "Grandpa's Farm" can be educational, and give you the opportunity
to present farming in a professional, safe manner.
Disclaimer
and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent
NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission
of the author and/or copyright holder. More
NASD Review: 04/2002
This
news release was distributed by Iowa State University Extension
as part of the Safe Farm program. Safe Farm promotes health
and safety in agriculture. It is funded by the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health, Iowa State University, and
a network of groups that serve Iowa farm workers and their families.
Distribution date: July 1992.
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