As the planting season draws near, every moment becomes crucial. Taking just a minute to reflect on your safety could be the most valuable minute you invest.
In rural areas during spring, three specific locations present hazards: public roads, electric lines, and railroad crossings. Numerous split-second accidents occur in these settings.
According to Fred Whitford, the director of Purdue Pesticide Programs, many mishaps stem from farmers rushing through tasks. He emphasizes that relying on luck is not a sound safety strategy, even though many have narrowly escaped dangerous situations in the past.
To mitigate risks associated with these areas, here are some recommendations:
Ensuring Road Safety
The size of equipment continues to increase, while rural roads remain narrow. Coupled with the growing traffic volume and impatience among drivers, road safety becomes paramount. Whitford advises farmers to be considerate and proactive in controlling the outcome of situations.
- Practice courtesy on the road. If operating a tractor or farm machinery and three or more vehicles are trailing behind, pull over when safe to do so, as required by law.
- Exercise caution during left turns. Position your vehicle in the center of the road before turning left to prevent unsafe passing maneuvers. Additionally, toggle your blinkers off, then on when slowing down, and signal before making a left turn to enhance visibility.
- Consider installing cameras. Due to limited visibility around large equipment, adding cameras can significantly improve your field of vision at a minimal cost.
- Display SMV signs when necessary. Particularly when towing wagons, ensure the presence of a slow-moving vehicle sign. Failure to display this sign could leave you vulnerable in legal disputes, as highlighted by Whitford.
Safety Precautions around Overhead Power Lines
While caution around electricity is essential, living in fear is unnecessary. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Treat downed power lines as live wires. Maintain a safe distance and prevent others from approaching. Contact the relevant authorities for assistance.
- Exercise caution when aiding others near electrical hazards. Refrain from endangering yourself by attempting a rescue. Instead, alert emergency services or the utility provider.
- Be mindful of obstacles. Prevent entanglement with wires or guy lines while operating machinery near roadways.
- Stay inside the vehicle if power lines are compromised. Unless there is a fire risk, remain in the cab until the power source is deactivated.
Railroad Safety Measures
Attempting to outpace a train is never advisable, as the risks far outweigh any time saved. Follow these precautions for railroad safety:
- Avoid crossing arms. A significant portion of train collisions with vehicles result from motorists circumventing lowered gates.
- Heed advance warning signs. Be alert to yellow signs denoting upcoming railroad tracks.
- Know the emergency protocol. In the event of a stalled vehicle on the tracks, locate the blue Emergency Notification System sign at the crossing for pertinent contact information. Only after notifying the railroad should you contact emergency services for assistance.
- Evacuate stalled vehicles promptly. If a train approaches and your vehicle is stranded, exit immediately with all occupants and move to a safe distance.
By adhering to these safety guidelines, you can safeguard yourself and others from potential hazards during the upcoming planting season.