The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America, with 573 fatalities, or an equivalent of 23.1 deaths per 100,000 workers. Fall harvesttime can be one of the busiest and most dangerous seasons of the year for farmers.

For this reason, the third week of September has been recognized as National Farm Safety and Health Week. This annual promotion initiated by the National Safety Council has been proclaimed as such by each sitting U.S. president since Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944. National Farm Safety and Health Week is led by the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, the agricultural partner of the National Safety Council. National Farm Safety and Health Week is Sept. 17-23. The theme this year is “No One Can Take Your Place.”

These figures are especially relevant during harvest season, as farmers are putting in long hours under the stress of weather delays and equipment breakdowns.

What to do

Many farm accidents can be prevented. What if there is an accident? Farm safety experts recommend the following:

Things happen

Since the 1930s, PTOs have helped farmers harness the power of tractor engines to drive a variety of implements. The tractor powers a shaft that spins at hundreds of revolutions per minute. But PTOs without a shield can grab clothing or hair and wrap it around its revolving shaft.

Bin entrapments are sad reminders that grain storage can be deadly. It takes only five seconds for a person to be caught in flowing grain, and less than 20 seconds to be sucked into the center of the grain, buried and suffocated, according to farm safety experts. A child can be buried in far less time.

If you find yourself trapped in grain, cup your hands around your mouth and nose to create an air pocket, safety experts advise. This may give you enough time for someone to rescue you.

This all may sound like commonsense advice to those of us who live or work on farms, but I have learned commonsense isn’t all that common — especially when you are in a hurry, you are tired or you just “forget.” Things can happen.

Slow down this harvest season and stay safe. The life you save may be your own!