Agricultural Safety for Children

Farms are amazing places to live, work, and visit, but they can also be dangerous for children. From large equipment to animals and chemicals, farms are full of potential hazards. Taking time to review safety rules can help keep kids safe. Here’s what you need to know.

How can you keep children safe on a farm?

Stay away from farm roads

Farm roads often have higher speed limits than regular roads. Drivers may not expect to see children, making sudden stops difficult. Teach children to stay clear of roads and always supervise playtime.

Avoid playing near farm equipment

Farm equipment can be very dangerous, even when it’s not running. Sharp edges, moving parts, or the risk of falling into storage bins can cause serious injuries. Make sure children stay away from equipment and machinery at all times, especially without supervision.

Teach children that farm vehicles are not toys

Tractors, lawnmowers, ATVs, and other vehicles might look fun, but they can be as dangerous as cars. Children should never drive or operate these machines. Always keep keys out of reach.

Talk about chemical safety

Farms often use chemicals like fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. These substances can be harmful if touched or ingested. Teach children:

• Never to touch or eat seeds, especially if they are coated

• To avoid areas where chemicals are stored or used

• To wash their hands thoroughly after spending time on the farm

Treat livestock with caution

Farm animals might seem friendly but can behave unpredictably. They can kick, bite, or trample, especially if startled. Never let children climb into pens or be near animals without an adult.

Practice horse safety

If your child is riding or around horses, teach them equine safety basics:

• Always wear a helmet when riding

• Never approach or handle a horse without an experienced adult present

Use protective gear and clean hands

Depending on the activity, your child might need safety gear like:

• Steel-toed boots

• Gloves

• Masks

• Helmets

Remind children (and adults) to wash their hands after handling animals, equipment, or chemicals to prevent illness.

Are you hosting a farm safety day?

If you’re planning a farm safety event, these resources can help:

• Order a free farm safety kit (shipping fees apply)

• Toolbox Talk: Playing Safe on the Farm

• Horse Safety Activity: Stop, Think, Act!

• Child and Youth Safety Resources from Workplace Safety and Prevention Services

• 4-H Agricultural Safety Project materials

What should I do next?

• Review these tips with your family or group before visiting or working on a farm

• Plan activities that keep children engaged and away from hazards

• Reach out to local safety organizations like the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) for more resources