It also helps to understand when injuries are most likely to happen. A young child's newly developing skills may catch parents unprepared. Injuries often happen when we're busy, tired, in a hurry, or when children are hungry or tired. On the farm, most injuries occur in summer and fall, and in late afternoon, early evening, or on Saturdays. Childcare is needed most during these times.
Prevention includes preparation.
Teach children what to do in an emergency. Since most children under age eight are not good readers of unfamiliar words, use symbols on your emergency telephone list. A safe outdoor play area away from livestock, traffic, and machinery is essential for children growing up on a farm. A fence helps separate play from work environments, however, young children still need close supervision. No matter how much you learn about farm dangers, do not expect children to understand them.