A recent posting on Farm Progress' Farmer Iron blog noted that a company has issued a number of "commandments" people can follow when using farm equipment. One of the most basic things people can do is make sure they know how their machines work. That would include reading the owner's manual and keeping farm equipment in proper working order.
Farmers should also be aware of the terrain they are planning to work on. Any changes in grade should be kept in mind when operating farm equipment. People should also keep their children away from farm equipment.
"Kids like equipment, but keeping them away is for their own good," the blog noted.
People should also take time when dealing with farm equipment. Hurrying a job that involves using equipment could turn into a rushed emergency trip to a hospital.
National Farm Safety and Health Week was first proclaimed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944. This year's theme for the week focuses on encouraging safety while traveling in farm equipment on roadways.
