The Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association is taking a focus on safety with an interactive, hands-on event. The Lloydminster Progressive Agriculture Safety Day is coming for the eighth straight year to educate kids about farm safety.
On Thursday, May 9, grade four students will learn about the importance of agricultural and outdoor safety practices, as well as living a healthy lifestyle. The basis for the program is given by the Progressive Agriculture Foundation, in conjunction with the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association.
Agriculture leaders and volunteers from the community will help teach children on crucial farm safety topics. Progressive Agriculture Safety Day covers more than 25 different subject areas, ranging from animal and grain safety to healthy lifestyles and hidden hazards on the farm.
Safety around ATVs, firearms, animals and other farm features can be present in other areas off the farm. Sydney Lake of the Lloydminster Agriculture Exhibition says that farms are busy places, and it’s important to teach kids what to watch out for. It can also serve as a refresher for those who may feel very comfortable on a farm.
“Often we take things for granted or don’t always think about the different risks associated with those things, especially if you come from a farm. Growing up there, you just get used to those things and maybe don’t pay as much attention as you should. It’s important for everyone to be aware of the risks associated,” says Lake.
The Lloydminster event will be held on May 9 with the support of SAASE, the Government of Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, Farm Credit Canada, Canadian Initiative Fund, and the County of Vermilion River. It is expected that 450 children will be participating in the one day program that was created in response to the many tragic farm-related injuries and deaths that occur each year. The LAEA says most of these accidents could have been prevented by following simple safety precautions.