Farm Safety and Health Week comes around right as combines hit the roads. 

State Sen. Doris Turner is joining the Illinois Departments of Agriculture and Labor through Sept. 25th to spread awareness and emphasize this year’s National Farm Safety and Health Week theme: “Farm Safety Yields Real Results.” 

Sen. Turner says that harvest season serves as a reminder of how important farmers are to the economy in Illinois, and that it’s important for everyone to be aware of the hazards farmers face. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that the farming profession sees 573 farming fatalities a year. That’s about 23 deaths per 100,000 workers. 

Agricultural workers can minimize risk by making sure they stay visible on the road by displaying fluorescent orange Slow Moving Vehicle triangles. While tractors and other self-powered farm vehicles must have proper lighting. 

Drivers should remember farm vehicle operators have limited visibility to the rear and anyone passing these vehicles should use extreme caution. 

You can find more information on the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s Facebook and Twitter.