Harvest is in full swing, which means lots of heavy machinery and farm equipment is out on the roadways. Warren-Henderson Farm Bureau Manager Ashlyn Quinn reminds motorists to slow down and use caution:
“When you are driving on the road right now, with all that big machinery out and traveling field to field, just make sure that if you are ready to pass, check that the machinery is not turning. Sometimes when they start veering toward the right side of the road they are getting ready to turn, so just make sure you are watching for their turn signals or hand signals that they could be turning. A heavy piece of machinery might have to move to the center of the road if there are mailboxes, bridges, road signs; make sure you have enough distance to safely pass them. Make sure the road is wide enough and they you have plenty of space before any oncoming traffic and only pass where it is legal. Don’t pass if there is that solid yellow center line and don’t pass near intersections, railroad tracks, tunnels, or bridges as these can be especially dangerous for our farmers and operators.”
Most farm equipment only travels at 15 to 20 miles per hour, making it crucial to slow down before it’s too late. Be patient, take a second look, wear your seat belt, and don’t drive distracted while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
During the harvest season, safety is not only for those on the roadways. Safety is also vital for the farmer and operator working around that farm equipment on a daily basis, stresses Quinn:
“Make sure you are wearing your proper PPE when you are operating, avoid loose fitted clothing. Make sure to inspect your machinery before getting started for the day. Use guards and shields and all the safety features you have on your equipment to keep it in good condition. Shut down machinery completely before you leave them for a while. Be cautious around PTO shafts and never step over a running PTO shaft. Be mindful around grain bins. Make sure you are staying hydrated and taking breaks. Be aware of your surroundings. Know where you are working and make sure someone on your team knows where you are working as well. Be careful if you have children or animals around working equipment. Have some sort of emergency plan. Try and keep a First-Aid kit in your machinery if you can. Check fire extinguishers. Try and do most of your work during the daylight hours and avoid being out all night long, that way you are also getting some rest too.”
Last week was National Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois, marking the 81st year for the annual observance nationwide in bringing attention to safety during the harvest season.
