During harvest, it is tempting to take shortcuts that save time but may compromise safety. Farmers should always block up the combine header before working underneath it, and they should make sure safety shields are in place when operating equipment. Be cautious on the road. The fall harvest season is a particularly dangerous time on rural roads because many farm tractors, combines and other vehicles share the road with motorists. Speed is the biggest single factor affecting the severity of a highway crash, so drivers can help themselves and others by driving within the posted speed limit.
Farmers can also help by making their slow-moving vehicles as visible as possible.
Be prepared for combine fires. Farmers should keep the combine and other equipment as clean as possible to minimize the chance of fire. They should watch for sources of combustible materials that could lead to a fire. They should make sure they have at least one ten-pound ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher on every combine. Take breaks to stay alert.