East Pottawattamie sixth grade youth and home schooled youth, were invited to participate in the fourth annual Farm Safety Day, on May 8.  The event was sponsored by East Pottawattamie Farm Bureau, East Pottawattamie Soil and Water Conservation, and East Pottawattamie 4-H, with donations, and presentations from area businesses. The event featured twelve Farm Safety learning stations including Animal Safety by Perdue Farms, Emergency Weather Safety by Pottawattamie County EMT Crew, Grain Safety Tug of War by Riverside FFA, Emergency Rescue Safety by Carson Fire Rescue Team, ATV Safety by AHSTW FFA, Hearing Safety by UNMC Education Team, Basic First Aid by Visiting Nurses Association, Power Take Off Safety by Avoca Titan Machinery and Colin Applegate, Electrical Safety by Nishnabotna Valley REC, Fire Extinguisher Safety by Horizon Equipment, Sun and Skin Safety by CHI Cancer Education, and Chemical Safety by Heartland Coop.  The learning stations were hands-on, interactive, and full of information to make a lasting impression.

2018 Farm Safety Day

The event focused on sixth grade youth, because at this age many become more responsible on the family farm.  Presenters also feel it is important to teach safety to those not living on the farm, as they visit family and friends and need to learn to recognize the dangers present.  Many general topics were covered that kids can use every day. Lunch was provided to the youth and volunteers through many local donations.  Participants took home a farm hat donated by area businesses that they got to wear for the event in addition to a draw string bag donated by UNMC Education Team.  Special appreciation goes out to AHSTW FFA and Riverside FFA for providing leadership to our youth groups throughout the day.

“The impact of this great event shows the desire for a community to support its kids,” said Jamie Meek, East Pottawattamie Soil & Water Conservation Educator.  “The willingness for individuals and businesses to give their time, dollar, and knowledge to our youth is what makes an event like this, not only successful, but outstanding.”

(From the East Pott. County Extension Office)