Written by Dave Stewart
Zehr Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Life on the farm can offer kids incredible experiences. From feeding the animals at dawn to watching a combine harvest corn. Children get to see the world work in ways most people don’t! But while the farm can be a place of wonder, it’s also a workplace. Without the right safety measures in place, it can get dangerous.
Why Does Farm Safety Matter?
Living on a farm is such a unique experience because they often mix work, home and play all in one.
For kids, this can be a great experience, but also great risk. Teaching farm safety isn’t about taking the fun out of the farm life but making sure those great memories don’t turn into accidents.
Unlike a typical backyard, farms are full of machinery, animals and tools not made for children. Even simple equipment like a ladder or feeding troughs can become dangerous when curious kids are around.
Most Common Dangers on the Farm for Kids
Some of the biggest dangers include:
- Machinery – Tractors, combines and augers aren’t made for child’s play. Even when parked, they can roll, shift or attract curious kids.
- Animals – Livestock might seem gentle, but even the friendliest cow can kick, charge or bite unexpectedly.
- Chemicals – Pesticides, fertilizers and fuels must be kept out of reach and in a secured child proof area.
- Water Hazards – Areas such as ponds, water troughs, manure pits, lagoons, and even ditches filled with rainwater can pose serious drowning risks, especially for young children.
- Grain Bins and Silos – Although it may look fun to kids, these containers can act like quicksand and are never safe for children to play around.
Farm Safety Rules Every Parent Should Follow to Protect Kids
Keeping kids safe requires constant attention, clear rules and leading by example. Here are some essential guidelines for practicing safety:
Keep Play Areas Far from Equipment.
Designate safe zones for play, well away from parked or operating machinery. Always store equipment and keys securely and out of reach when not in use.
Keep Grain Bins & Silos Off-Limits
These structures are extremely hazardous, and children should never be near them under any circumstances.
Keep Kids Away from Water Hazards
Children should never play near water hazards like lagoons, ponds, or manure pits. These areas may have deep water, slippery edges, or harmful gases. Fence off or clearly mark them and always supervise closely.
Always Supervise Children During Animal Interactions.
Children should only be around livestock with an adult present. Use these moments to teach calm, respectful behaviour around livestock.
Control Their Access to Barns, Pens and Pastures.
Teach kids to never enter restricted areas. Reinforce physical and verbal boundaries and clearly mark all “danger zones.”
Supervise, Supervise, Supervise.
Kids should never be left alone around machinery, animals, or water. Active, engaged supervision is the best prevention tool.
Be a Role Model!
Kids follow the example of their caregivers, show them what safe behavior looks and sounds like. Always encourage questions when they’re unsure.
Conclusion:
Raising kids on the farm is a gift. They grow up learning responsibility, work ethic, and a deep connection to the land. But no memory is worth risking a child’s safety. With the right precautions, rules and supervision, kids can enjoy everything farm life offers, safely.
Call Zehr Insurance brokers and see if we can help you with your insurance needs.
