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It's easier to bury a tradition than a childby Richard C. Snell Barton County Extension Agent, agriculture Kansas I attended the funeral of a 20 year-old young person, recently. It was not the result of a farm accident, but none the less, it made me realize just how fragile life is and how difficult it is for the survivors when a death comes early or unexpectedly. National Farm Safety and Health Week is Sept. 16 to 22, as proclaimed by President Bush. This year's theme is, "It's Easier To Bury A Tradition Than A Child." A few years ago, we buried a nephew of mine from an accident. He was four years old. It's hard to get over that. My focus today is to dwell on those still living on earth. Safety can't be taken for granted and although I only write about it a couple of times per year, it should be practiced through out the year. Agriculture continues to rank as one of the most dangerous occupations in North America. According to the National Safety Council, there were 703 deaths and 90,000 disabling injuries attributed to agriculture in 2005. Safety is not just for kids either. I have had my share of close calls when I did not anticipate a potentially dangerous situation that could have cost me my fingers, eyes or life. A friend of mine recently had both ankles broken while he was working on a farm implement and it fell on him when the hydraulic support didn't hold. He was fortunate, it could have killed him. Because farming and ranching is as much a lifestyle as an occupation, the entire family, including children and senior citizens, are often exposed to the many hazards associated with the agricultural workplace. Unlike most other industries, the majority of our farms are exempt from enforcement of many government safety and health regulations. Farm families, therefore must take on the responsibility of educating family members and workers about hazards and implementing safe practices that prevent injuries. So, what does this year's theme mean? Did you know that tractor rollovers and run-overs are the number one cause of death to children on the farm. These deaths can easily be prevented. Still, it seems that for some, it's a tradition to ride the tractor with their children and grandchildren. In just a few seconds, a child can fall off and be crushed by a tractor wheel or pull behind implement. Don't be fooled into thinking that an enclosed cab is safe, either. Doors become unlatched and fall open. Even if they ask to, never let a child under 12 on or near a tractor. Let's face it: It's easier to bury a tradition, than it is a child. Date: 9/27/07
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