Take care of Kids on farms over School Holidays

22 September 2002 PR129/02

Take care of Kids on farms over the School Holidays

Farms are fun places for kids to spend their holidays but we must never forget they are primarily a workplace, says Federated Farmer's National Vice President Charlie Pedersen.

"Farmers are aware of dangers on farm and develop safe work practices to minimise the risk. But to the uninitiated, the attractions of the farm can be extremely dangerous," said Mr Pedersen.

"Farm injury statistics clearly point to the dangers facing children living on and visiting farms.

"Exposure to chemicals can cause substantial injury to the inquisitive. The solution is to ensure all chemicals are locked away safely.

"Children love the prospect of riding on tractors, farm bikes and horses. As a rule, if there is one seat on a tractor, there should be only one person on the tractor- the operator. Too frequently, children are run over by farm vehicles.

Federated Farmers encourages farmers to ensure young children are supervised and all machinery is guarded.

"It is a risk to allow small children to drive ATV's as they may not have the required body weight to control these machines effectively. Farmers are strongly encouraged to ensure riders wear a helmet when riding ATVs, motorcycles or horses.

"Holidays on farms should be enjoyed but we all have to take responsibility for kid's safety. Hospital is no place to have a holiday."

ENDS

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