UNITY – Each year, the start of spring is always busy for those who work on the farm. Whether working the land or with livestock, getting through the year without any incidents is always a priority.
For the past six years - minus two during the pandemic - the Unity Agricultural Society has hosted Ag Safety days to Grade 4 and 5 students from both elementary schools in Unity. This year, 12 stations were set up both indoors and outside at the Unity Agro-Plex and Rodeo grounds, making the students aware of the dangers lurking around farms and acreages.
Joan Sperle with the Ag Society said she was very happy with the turnout in all aspects.
“We were really happy to such a great turnout of presenters from different businesses and companies,” she added.
The focus of the day was to teach both rural and urban youth the importance of safety on a farm or acreage. Veterinarian Dr. Travis Ducherer brought mares, Trixy and Holly, demonstrating how to approach and work with large animals. Other presenters included the three emergency services, Pattison Ag, SaskPower, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Kelsey Sperle and Gary Neigum.
According to the Government of Saskatchewan, most farms are more than a one-man operation. Some farmers hire workers, while others work with family. Regardless of who works with the farmer, everyone plays an important role when it comes to safety.
Many farmers recruit their children to help with work around the farm as well. Younger children should be taught at a young age to stay away from farm equipment, machinery and buildings such as grain bins and chemical buildings. With farm animals, young children should also be taught when to stay away. Some cattle herds can be spooked, creating a stampede, or even a dog with a new litter of pups can become aggressive if it or their offspring feels threatened. It is advised children have a specifically designated area, away from harm, where they are allowed to play.
“We hope we have some impact on the kids in keeping them safe on the farm and at home,” said Sperle.
As children get older, jobs should be age-appropriate with training and continued supervision. Always explain the job and stress the importance of safety as it is not always obvious.
Along with the volunteers with the Ag Society, the Unity Lions Club helped with cooking hot dogs for the students. Other sponsors included Progressive Agriculture Foundation, SAASE, Delta Co-op, Nutrien, SGI Traffic Safety.
