Farm Safety

Teens participating in a tractor safety course

UNMC, Nebraska Extension Offer Tractor Safety Course to Teens

February 5, 2020
The most common cause of agricultural-related death in Nebraska is overturned tractors and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Employing anyone uncertified under age 16 is a liability risk for farmers if those children operate such equipment.

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Stanton volunteer firefighters respond to a combine fire in 2016.

Practicing Fire Safety at Harvest

October 8, 2019
Stay safe from harvest equipment and field fires by maintaining equipment before you start, cleaning out embedded residue as you go, and making preparations to respond should a fire occur.

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Table of Heat Index Levels

Beat the Heat, Prevent Exhaustion and Stroke

June 12, 2019
Knowing the signs of heat-related illness can be a lifesaver for those who work long hours outdoors. Learn to recognize the symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke and how to respond. Apps for your phone and computer can help identify the local heat index.

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Two youth practicing proper connection procedures for a tractor PTO drive. Links to full article 'Tractor Safety Training Courses for Teen Farm/Ranch Workers'

Tractor Safety Training Courses for Teen Farm/Ranch Workers

February 12, 2019
Nebraska Extension’s Tractor Safety and Hazardous Occupations Courses will be offered at 12 sites this year for teens 14-15 years of age who want to work on a farm other than their family's. The training is required by law.

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Midwest Rural Ag Safety and Health Conference Nov. 27-29

November 1, 2018
"Stressing Resilience" will be the focus when farm safety advocates gather for the Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Conference Nov. 27-29 in Council Bluffs.

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Grain bins

Webinars Target How You Can Prevent Grain Engulfment

April 5, 2018
In 5 seconds, you can become engulfed by flowing grain. In 60 seconds, you can become submerged. Next week take a lunch hour (or three) to learn how you and those you work with can stay safe when working in enclosed spaces and with stored grain. The webinar series is being offered by ag safety organizations as part of Stand Up for Engulfment Prevention Week April 9-13.

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Figure 1. On Oct. 23, 2016, members of the Stanton Fire Department responded to a combine fire that started in the engine compartment. The combine was considered a total loss, but the quick response of firefighters allowed them to save the bean head, and control the fire from spreading into surrounding vegetation. (Photo by the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office)
Figure 1. On Oct. 23, 2016, members of the Stanton Fire Department responded to a combine fire that started in the engine compartment. The combine was considered a total loss, but the quick response of firefighters allowed them to save the bean head, and control the fire from spreading into surrounding vegetation. (Photo by the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office)

Keeping Your Equipment and Fields Fire Safe At Harvest

October 18, 2017
When residue builds up in your combine or poorly maintained equipment creates sparks, fires can ignite, quickly enveloping your equipment and field. Incorporating the practices outlined here into your harvest routine can help you stay safe this fall.

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When moving equipment at row ends and from field to field this hectic harvest season, be careful to always keep it at least 10 feet from overhead power lines. Power can jump or arc from the line to you and your equipment, creating life-threatening conditions.
Figure 1. When turning equipment at row ends and moving it from field to field this hectic harvest season, be careful to always keep it at least 10 feet from overhead power lines. Power can jump or arc from the line to you and your equipment, creating a life-threatening situation.

Look Up! Avoid Power Line Deaths this Harvest Season

September 11, 2017
This harvest season stay alert to overhead power lines and keep equipment at least 10 feet away, particularly at row ends and when working in unfamiliar fields. If equipment does hit a power line, follow the guide here to stay safe.

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