Madison,
21
September
2016
|
09:36 AM
America/Chicago

American Family Insurance encourages farmers to make safety a "legacy to be proud of"

National Farm Safety and Health Week is Sept. 18-24

Summary

National Farm Safety and Health Week is a good reminder for farmers to educate and discuss safety with family members and workers.

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National Farm Safety & Health Week, Sept. 18-24, is a time to remind farmers to educate and discuss with family members and workers about safety, and incorporate and promote smart safety practices on the farm. 

This year’s theme, ‘Ag Safety – A Legacy to be Proud of" reminds farmers that although agriculture is a very rewarding profession, it’s also among the most dangerous occupations. Using good safety practices are important for the well-being of farmers and workers, and also for running a successful operation. The most recent data from the U.S. Department of Labor indicates that in 2014 farming accounted for 568 fatalities, with an estimated 70,000 injuries. It’s highly likely you know someone in your community who has been injured or killed in a farm-related accident.

Among the safety measures farmers can take include: wearing protective clothing (and avoiding loose-fitting apparel) and hearing and eye protection and mouth masks; using wheel blocks when unhitching wagons and carts; supervising children; disengaging power before getting off tractors; and using caution around power lines when operating equipment.

During National Farm Safety and Health Week, American Family Insurance encourages all farm families and workers to look around and evaluate potential hazards as prevention starts with awareness and education. Then make sure everyone adheres to safety procedures.

Being aware of the dangers will allow you to avoid some tragic and costly consequences. Take the time to think of ways you can prevent injuries and death. Have an "ag safety legacy to be proud of."

Each year since 1944, the third week of September has been recognized as National Farm Safety and Health Week. This recognition is an annual promotion initiated by the National Safety Council.

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About American Family Insurance
Madison, Wis. - based American Family Insurance is the nation's 13th-largest property/casualty insurance group and ranks 332nd on the Fortune 500 list. The company sells American Family-brand products, including auto, homeowners, life, business and farm/ranch insurance, through its exclusive agents in 19 states. American Family affiliates (The General, Homesite and AssureStart) also provide options for consumers who want to manage their insurance matters directly over the Internet or by phone. Web www.amfam.com; Facebook www.facebook.com/amfam; Twitter www.twitter.com/amfam; Google+ plus.google.com/+amfam/.