‘Down on the farm’ – it can be an idyllic place for children to grow up, to play and to learn. All that space, all that country air, all that fresh produce, the animals, the lifestyle.
But farms are also adult workplaces and that means there are potential hazards lurking in that idyllic environment.
The main hazards for kids on farms are machinery and vehicles like tractors and motorbikes, but water and animals can also result in injuries.
Children cannot think through the consequences of their actions in the way adults can, so it is up to adults to reduce the danger rather than expect children to avoid it.
Children are quick and they watch and imitate adults – learning good or bad habits!
So, the key message is to keep danger out of reach of children - Here’s some tips on how to prevent children getting into trouble on a property:
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Turn the ignition off and remove the key when not using machinery or a vehicle if children might happen to be nearby.
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Lock up chemicals and keep the key out of a child’s sight and reach.
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When thinking about what chemicals might be a hazard for children, be over-cautious.
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When travelling in a vehicle near the farmhouse and farm buildings, keep it at a slow speed.
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Park farm machinery on level ground.
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When starting machinery make sure children are well away, as loose clothing, hair and limbs can easily catch in machinery and cause serious injury.
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Make sure children cannot access animal pens and stockyards unless accompanied by an adult.
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Keep aggressive animals well away from the house.
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Explain potential dangers to older children and demonstrate your own respect for dangerous machinery and chemicals.
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Insist on everyone in the family using appropriate safety gear, including approved helmets (Australian Standards) for riding and cycling.
For more information on the development, health and safety of children and young people visit http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/healthyliving/kids/index.php
By Christine Long
Director of Nursing - Child Health and Parenting Service
Department of Health and Human Services