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“Children and teens like to explore, want to check out places and things that are new and different. But, that also can expose them to dangers they’re not ready for,” said Dr. Rod Greder, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County sustainable agriculture agent. “Events like our Youth Safety Day teach children and teens how to better protect themselves by learning how to identify and reduce their risks.”
Each year, roughly 100 children die and thousands more suffer injuries on America’s farms and ranches, according to the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. Many of the deaths and injuries come in non-work settings, with children simply playing or relaxing, and are preventable.
The Youth Safety Day event, running 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will offer for youth ages 8 through 18 an array of hands-on demonstrations that highlight and help to avoid harmful, hidden hazards of farm surroundings and other rural settings, including large animals, tractors and heavy equipment, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and more.
Additional sessions teach lifesaving first-aid techniques, staying safe in the sun or around the machine shop, firearm safety, and more. As a bonus, a helicopter and rescue truck are scheduled for the event, plus an onsite food truck and entertainment.
Through the array of engaging activities, children can learn about potential dangers and the importance of taking responsibility for their own safety, understanding and respecting safety rules and guidelines, and then sharing what they learn with their family and friends. Parents are encouraged to attend and support their children’s learning.
Supported by donations from local farmers, volunteers, manufacturers and merchants, the event is one in a series held across the United States and Canada by Progressive Agriculture Foundation to raise awareness of the potential dangers inherent in operations that typically feature large equipment, livestock, and a range of other less-obvious hazards.
Cost to participate is $5 per youth, in advance or at the gate, and includes snacks, a take-home bag, and a Safety Day T-shirt. Parents or guardians are admitted free with a paid youth. Space is limited, so save your spot by registering early atwww.eventbrite.com/e/625674097067.
For more information, contact Dr. Rod Greder, sustainable agriculture agent, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, at 941-861-9810 or rgreder@ufl.edu.
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County partners local, state and federal resources to translate research into community initiatives, classes, and volunteer opportunities related to 4-H youth development; agriculture; gardening and landscaping; natural resources; nutrition and healthy living; and sustainability. Learn more at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota.
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