Evening fuel-fill and lubrication prepare machinery for the next day and prevent condensation and corrosion. Secure all guards and shields before starting the equipment to reduce potential for someone getting caught in moving parts. Block hydraulically-raised equipment before anyone works around or under a machine. Never try to clear plugged equipment by hand while power is engaged. The brain can't transmit the message to let go of crop material quickly enough if a machine suddenly clears itself.
Fire is a hazard in the field, so carry a fire extinguisher in every piece of powered equipment.
Children and machinery don't mix. Far too many tragedies occur when children end up in the path of equipment from which the operator's view is restricted. Ensure that the SMV emblem and appropriate reflectors are in place. Having an escort is invaluable on some roads and at times of high traffic volumes. The end of the growing season should be a time of celebration for harvesting nature's bounty and not a time of remorse from needless injury.