Like many of you, I grew up on a farm, and my husband and I raised our four sons on a farm. Living on a farm is an enriching and rewarding experience for children. Exploring wide-open spaces provides daily adventures in learning about cows and other critters. There’s plenty for them to discover and do.

However, it’s important to make safety on a farm a priority, especially with kids where hazards may be more common than in a typical backyard. Sept. 15-21 is National Farm Safety Week. Following are some essential tips to ensure that children who live on or visit a farm stay safe:

1. Establish safe play areas. Designate specific areas of the farm as safe zones for children to play in. These areas should be away from machinery and livestock, with soft ground cover to cushion falls. Look for an open space for room to play that’s still in eyesight from where you’re supervising them. 

2. Set rules and boundaries. Establish clear guidelines for children to follow while on the farm. These boundaries may look different depending on their age, as older kids are a bit more aware and responsible than younger kids. These rules could include staying within designated areas, not wandering off alone and asking permission before engaging in any activities. No matter their age, make sure your kids know what they are and are not allowed to do.

3. Teach animal safety. Of course, don’t leave children unsupervised near livestock. Teach them about the proper way to interact with farm animals. Livestock and other animals can be unpredictable. Emphasize the importance of approaching animals calmly, avoiding sudden movements, and never teasing or provoking them. It’s important to teach kids to always respect the space of animals, especially those with babies.

4. Remove keys from machinery. Prevent accidental starts by removing keys from tractors, ATVs and other machinery when not in use. Be sure to store keys in a secure location. It’s also important to be on the lookout for kids wanting to climb on heavier machinery like tractors. This can create fall hazards, so it’s important to be close by just in case.

5. Keep dangerous items out of reach. Chemicals and sharp tools pose significant risks to children. Remember to store these items securely in locked cabinets or sheds to ensure they’re well out of the reach of curious little hands.

6. Provide supervision. Perhaps the most important tip of all is to supervise children on the farm. Even with safety measures in place, accidents can still happen.

By following these safety tips, parents can help create a safe and enjoyable environment for kids on the farm. With proper precautions and supervision, children can experience the wonders of farm life while staying out of harm’s way.