By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The Crenshaw County Extension Agency, in collaboration with the Crenshaw County branch of the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Crenshaw County Young Farmers, held its annual Farm Safety Day program Sept. 22 at the Tom Harbin Ag Center. This event provided essential education, training, and resources to help ensure the safety and well-being of children and their communities in rural areas.

In total, over 200 sixth grade students, teachers and volunteers participated.

According to Crenshaw County Extension Coordinator Amanda West Evans, agriculture is undeniably one of the most hazardous industries and farmers and their families are at risk for both fatal and nonfatal injuries.

“Farmers across the country are injured or killed in agricultural accidents daily,” said Evans. “Farm Safety Day helps teach sixth graders the dangers they could very likely encounter living in a rural county as we do even if they don’t themselves live on a farm.”

Evans said that by educating students, organizers hope to help prevent future accidents in our community.
“Our Extension Office is very thankful for those who took time to participate in this event and share their knowledge and experiences about safety. This event would not be possible without our partner agencies and volunteers.”

Stations were set up that included demonstrations and hands-on activities that covered a variety of potentially life-saving topics that apply to any student, regardless if they live on a farm.

At the John Deere station, students learned valuable insights into lawnmower safety, tractor safety, and more.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) conducted a drunk driving simulation to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence.

Representatives from the South Alabama Electric Cooperative presented a live-wire safety demonstration, emphasizing the dangers of electricity. Other stations were manned by organizations including the Crenshaw County Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), South East Alabama Gas, Crenshaw County 4-H Trailblazers Club, Crenshaw Career Academy, Alabama Forestry Commission, Luverne Police Department and Luverne CoOp where students were educated on various safety issues including horse safety, natural gas safety, ATV/UTV safety. firearm safety, first aide, heat exhaustion and dehydration, sun safety and more.

High school students from Brantley FFA played a crucial role in guiding student groups and gave a presentation on fire safety.

4-H Foundation Regional Extension Agent Heather Sanders provided lessons on emergency preparedness, covering topics related to threats to breathing, heart health, and bodily injuries that could be applicable in both farm and non-farm scenarios.

Trilby Jones, a sixth grader at Crenshaw Christian Academy, shared her enthusiasm for the hands-on learning format.

“Everything was very informative, and although I was familiar with some of the farm safety practices, I learned a lot, especially about the dangers of electricity,” Jones said.

Jones was particularly impressed by the demonstration of how linemen safely handle live power lines.
Noah Stillwell, a sixth grader at Highland Home School, also enjoyed the educational field trip.

“We learned about outdoor fundamentals like how to make a tourniquet from scratch and safe use of side by sides, tractors, lawn mowers, et cetera,” Stillwell said. “My favorite station was the one where we learned about sun safety and got to play a game after where I won a hat.”

Farm Safety Day was made possible through sponsorship from The Progressive Agriculture Foundation which collaborates with corporations, organizations, and individuals to provide funding and resources for Progressive Agriculture Safety Day programs across the nation.

The annual Farm Safety Day program continues to make a significant impact in Crenshaw County by equipping the next generation with essential safety knowledge and fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness in farming communities and beyond. With the collaborative efforts of various organizations and passionate volunteers, the program strives to ensure that “No One Can Take Your Place” when it comes to farm safety and well-being.