Chronicle Editorial

By: 
Chronicle Staff

Spring safety solutions
 
     Fields throughout Iowa have been buzzing with activity recently in preparation for the spring planting season. Though rains might hamper work this week, farmers will no doubt take advantage of ideal spring weather once the clouds clear off.
     An uptick in activity means increased odds for accidents. These incidents may occur on the farm, road or in the field, and it's important to remain cognizant of hazards as we charge headfirst into spring. As many folks already know, farmers work in a dangerous occupation that presents more than a few opportunities for accidents each day. Limiting those risks by staying aware of your surroundings and situation is the best way to stay safe when you're working long hours in the field.
     Each year, the Iowa Farm Safety Council releases a helpful list of tips for farmers during harvest time. It's still relevant for the spring planting season and deserves a glance every now and then. The council suggests: cautiously approaching field adjustments or repairs; taking precautions to avoid slips and falls; making smart decisions while assigning tasks to youth; using and maintaining the slow moving vehicle emblem correctly; and retrofitting tractors with rollover protective structures. These tips are all no-brainers for veteran farmers, but it never hurts to brush up during the busier times of the year.
     Drivers on Iowa's roads also bear responsibility during the demanding spring months. Please pay attention to the road and limit distractions while driving through rural areas. Put the phone down, stop gawking and take it easy. It only takes a few seconds of distracted driving to cause an accident. Give slow moving farm equipment like tractors and sprayers space and make smart choices while passing. Tragedy can strike in the blink of an eye, and it happens nearly every spring in rural areas similar to ours.
     Farm safety is deservedly important, but so too is another common springtime reminder – fire safety. Many residents hold controlled burns on CRP ground or other grassland this time of the year. It clears out dead plants and improves habitat for Iowa's native species. However, these seemingly harmless fires can get out of hand when conditions are just right. We saw that firsthand last week when multiple controlled burns spread out of control due to high-speed winds and extremely dry conditions. It's important to heed the National Weather Service's Red Flag Warnings to safeguard against damage – you don't want to burn your barn down or jeopardize your neighbor’s property. It’s just grass after all, and grass can wait.
     The world would be a much safer place if we just used common sense and stayed on the lookout more often. Please be alert on the road and stay aware of hazards this spring. It's the least you can do to ensure a safe season for everyone involved.
 
     Have a safe, productive planting season! 

Hampton Chronicle

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Hampton, IA 50441
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