SARASOTA COUNTY – For many children and teens, farms, ranches and other rural areas seem enticing places to play or explore. But, these areas can pose numerous dangers for youngsters who work or visit these settings. The family-oriented “Youth Safety Day” April 15, hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County at the Sarasota County Farm Bureau, 7289 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota, will showcase ways to spot and avert these often-unexpected risks. “Almost 2/3 of kids injured on farms aren’t working at the time but just hanging out at the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Dr. Rod Greder, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County sustainable agriculture agent. “Events like our Youth Safety Day teach children how to identify and reduce their risks to better protect themselves.” |
Each year, roughly 100 children die and thousands more suffer injuries on America’s farms and ranches, according to the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. Many of the deaths and injuries come in non-work settings, with children simply playing or relaxing, and are preventable. The Youth Safety Day event, open to all youth ages 8 through 18, will offer an array of hands-on demonstrations that highlight and help avoid harmful, hidden hazards of farm surroundings and other rural settings, from large animals to tractors and heavy equipment. Additional sessions teach lifesaving first-aid techniques, staying safe in the sun or around the machine shop, firearm safety, operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), and more. As a bonus, a Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office helicopter is scheduled to make an exciting appearance at the event. Through the array of engaging activities, children can learn about potential dangers and the importance of taking responsibility for their own safety, understanding and respecting safety rules and guidelines, and then sharing what they learn with their family and friends. Supported by donations from local farmers, volunteers, manufacturers and merchants, the event is one in a series held across the country by Progressive Agriculture Foundation to raise awareness of the potential dangers inherent in operations that typically feature large equipment, livestock, and a range of other less-obvious hazards. Cost to participate is $5 per youth, which covers snacks, a take-home bag, and a Safety Day T-shirt. Parents or guardians are admitted free with a paid youth, and are encouraged to attend and support their children. Learn more and register by April 07 at www.eventbrite.com/e/507765569487. Space is limited, so register early to save your spot. For more information, contact Dr. Rod Greder, sustainable agriculture agent, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, at 941-861-9810 or rgreder@ufl.edu. |