Harvest season is here in rural Minnesota—a busy and important time for our farmers and community. With long hours in the field, more equipment on the roads, and extra activity around the farm, it’s important to keep safety top of mind.
Here are some key reminders for farmers, families, and neighbors:
For Farmers & Farm Families
- Rest when you can. Fatigue is a major cause of farm accidents. Even short breaks help.
- Use protective equipment. Wear hearing protection, safety glasses, and dust masks when needed.
- Stay visible. Make sure slow-moving vehicle signs and lights on tractors/combines are clean and working.
- Mind entanglement risks. Shut off equipment before making adjustments—never reach into moving parts.
- Protect young helpers. Keep kids away from busy equipment and supervise them closely around the farmyard.
- Fire safety matters. Fields, engines, and grain dust can ignite—carry a fire extinguisher in equipment.
For Drivers on the Road
- Be patient. Farm machinery moves much slower than cars and trucks. Slow down and give extra space.
- Pass carefully. Only pass when it’s safe and legal. Large equipment often makes wide turns.
- Stay alert. Expect more trucks hauling grain on rural roads, especially near elevators.
- Avoid distractions. Phones can wait—focus on the road.
Extra Safety Reminders People Don’t Always Think About
- Check grain bins safely. Grain can act like quicksand—never enter alone and always use safety harnesses. Learn more here.
- Mind the dust. Grain dust can trigger breathing issues—use masks if needed.
- Hydrate and fuel your body. Coffee and soda aren’t enough—drink water and eat balanced meals to stay alert.
- Watch for children and pets. Excitement during harvest can bring little ones too close to machinery.
- Look out for neighbors. If someone seems overly tired, stressed, or struggling, check in—it can make a difference.
From our hospital and clinic family to yours, we wish you a safe and successful harvest. Thank you, farmers, for the work you do to nourish our communities!