BLOOMINGTON — The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) is once again collaborating with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to promote farm safety and health during National Farm Safety and Health Week Sept. 21-25.
This year’s theme, “Safety Today, Success Tomorrow,” raises awareness of the hazards of working in agriculture.
“We’re excited to help promote and support NECAS’s efforts in keeping farmers and farm families safe,” said Katie Laleman, manager, Henry County Farm Bureau. “Harvest season can be particularly dangerous for farmers with long hours and stress of weather delays, equipment breakdowns or high operating costs, and this year’s activities will reinforce the importance of organizations like ours working together to ensure farmers make it home safely to their families at night.”
Each day of the week has a designated topic of focus to promote various aspects of farm safety:
The 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the agricultural sector remains the most hazardous industry in America, with 475 fatalities.
Fall harvest time is particularly busy and perilous for those in agriculture.
“Farmers are notorious for their work ethic and determination, both qualities that also can be a detriment when it comes to safety,” said Laleman. “While farm safety is top of mind every week for farmers, their families and their employees, National Farm Safety and Health Week is an opportunity to spotlight safety reminders that keep those both inside and outside the agriculture industry aware and mindful during the busy harvest season.”
For more information contact your local county Farm Bureau, visit www.necasag.org, or contact Donna Gallivan at 309-557-2350 or dgallivan@ilfb.org.
