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The 2021 National Farm Safety and Health Week will be observed Sept. 19-25.

North Carolina Farm Bureau ask the public to join in on observing this special week, which includes the following:

Monday (Sept. 20) – Tractor Safety & Rural Roadway Safety. Each year there are hundreds of crashes on rural roads that involve farm equipment. Motorists can prevent rural roadway crashes by doing your part: Slow down. Be patient. For farmers, maintaining good lighting and marking on farm equipment are practical ways that operators of equipment can stay safe on the road and prevent crashes.

Tuesday (Sept. 21) – Overall Farmer Health. Heat illnesses and deaths are preventable. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke present the same symptoms. Make sure you’re familiar with the different signs and symptoms of heat illnesses.

From a mental health aspect, if you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression or another mental health challenge, you are not alone. Check out #FarmStateofMind resources from @FarmBureau which includes a national resource directory.

Wednesday (Sept. 22) – Safety & Health for Youth in Agriculture. Protect the most important thing you’ll ever raise….your children! Be a parent first, farmer second. Do all you can to make your farm safe for children. Keep young children out of the worksite and off equipment by creating areas for safe play.

Additionally, working with animals is an excellent way to instill responsibility in children on the farm. However, this duty comes with some hidden risks that may go unnoticed by children. Teaching youth how to interact with livestock can help prevent injury and promote safety

Thursday (Sept. 23) – Agricultural Fertilizer & Chemical Safety. Chemicals and pesticides are used on farms for a multitude of reasons. If used correctly and according to directions, chemicals can be safe. When directions aren’t followed, they can be dangerous. Remember a chemical label is your friend – read labels before using any chemical or pesticide. Also, when you step onto the field remember to use the proper PPE to prevent exposure to pesticide chemicals on the farm.

Friday (Sept. 24) – Safety & Health for Women in Agriculture. On average, women have different body proportions compared to their male counterparts – equipment and tools are often not designed for this and can increase risk for exposure and injury. Remember to always look for PPE designed to fit your size and shape when possible.