Harvest season is underway, and that means farm vehicles will be out on the roads.  This recurring phase of the year necessitates several safety reminders for farmers and other members of the community.  While the USDA does not have specific data, harvest season is widely regarded as the most dangerous part of the year for farmers.  

Collisions on the road, farm implement rollovers, and other hazards with machinery can lead to serious injuries and deaths.  Like in other counties, the Christian County Sheriff’s Office responds to incidents like these throughout the season.  They hope to educate people on these risks and what to do to keep themselves and their neighbors safe.  Chief Deputy Jim Baker says it is important for those who do not farm to understand how farm implements operate. 

As for those who are farmers, making sure that all parts of farm equipment work as intended can prevent many kinds of accidents. 

With farm vehicles moving from roads meant for cars into the fields, Chief Deputy Baker reminds farmers to set Rollover Protective Structures (ROPs) in addition to fastening their seat belts. 

Farm safety is not the only subject of discussion at the Christian County Sheriff’s Office.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has set September 21-27 as Child Passenger Safety Week.  While parents may have properly set up car seats in their own cars, friends and other relatives who may have to drive children around need to know how to set up the seats in their vehicles too. 

Find out more about the Christian County Sheriff’s Office by visiting them at their Facebook page. You can also download the CCSO IL App on your mobile device for the latest news and information.

Jim Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.