Farmers urged to keep children safe this summer

WorkSafe's agriculture programme manager, Al McCone, says, "Children are a vital part of farming life. Many farmers learned about farming from their parents and want to enjoy their farms with their own families and friends. We want that to continue.

"The sad fact is that 23 children (aged between one and 15) have died in work-related farm accidents since 2000, and eight of those died in either the month of December or January."

McCone says farmers need to change their thinking from that of working alone, to having the kids around while they do their tasks.

"Of the 10 deaths of children under the age of five, seven involved the child being near the parents working. If you are used to working alone, and get engrossed in a task or problem, then it is easy to forget about the kids. Farmers need to be aware of this and take steps to ensure the kids stay top of mind."

Taking practical steps like fencing ponds, covering pits, locking chemicals away and being aware when using hot water in dairy sheds will reduce the risk of accidents.

McCone says locking doors to stop children getting into areas they shouldn't and removing keys from vehicles are all good ideas.

"Even if you have safety guards on machinery, these may still have holes small enough for children to put their hands through," adds McCone.

"Kids love playing around vehicles. Like the Safekids' driveway safety campaign says 'Check for me before you turn the key'. Walk around the vehicle first and check children are a safe distance away before starting the engine. A few seconds extra care will prevent what could be a tragedy."

Eight of the 14 deaths involving children aged between five and 15 involved a child operating a vehicle. Making sure vehicle operators are competent and suited to the vehicle is essential for their safety.