Harvest is coming up fast for many farmers this year. With harvest, many producers around the area need to keep in mind that they are working with dangerous machinery. Most harvest injuries and fatalities involve machinery and equipment. Farmers and workers should pay close attention to what messages their bodies are sending them. Pay close attention to drowsiness, fatigue, dehydration, or illness.

To plan for an injury free harvest season there are a few safety tips one can follow. Communication is key when working in the field, letting someone know where you are and giving regular updates. Having an emergency plan in order in case of accidents or injuries. Stay aware of surrounding power lines when travelling in farm equipment. Workers should also be aware of all surrounding hazards, pick up any tools or objects you could possibly trip over. Keep work areas clean.

Only those with proper training should be working with machinery. It is crucial to keep children away from dangerous equipment where they can easily be injured or killed.

A lot of stress comes with being a farmer or worker. It is a priority to be safe and hazard aware when working and with that comes mental safety. When working long and hard ours it can take a toll on the mind of a producer.

Saskatchewan offers a Farmer Stress Line that can help to clarify a problem or concern and work with a producer towards a solution. The Farmer Stress Line has professionals to provide confidential telephone crisis counselling, support, and information to help rural individuals living in the Saskatchewan communities. Stress and anxiety are nothing to be taken lightly when it comes to your safety and production of your daily living.

Farmer Stress Line: 1-800-667-4442

The Saskatchewan Farmer Stress Line is free, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is confidential.