TIPS FOR A SAFE HARVEST

Follow these steps to protect you and your machinery while in the field this autumn.

- Alex Gray

Dry field conditions increase the possibility of certain safety risks during harvest season.

Jesse Williams, a farmer in Osceola, Nebraska, and harvesting product specialist for Case IH, offers tips to protect you and your machinery during harvest.

• Fire prevention: A drier harvest season means keeping machinery clean of debris to prevent fire is more important than ever. Williams recommends using an air compressor or cordless leaf blower to blow out debris at least once a day.

“It’s about knowing your machine, knowing where the pockets are where debris builds up, and trying to keep those areas clean,” says Williams.

Check on your dry fire extinguishers to ensure they aren’t expired. Additionally, when fire extinguishers sit for a while, the material can sink to the bottom and get packed down.