Fires also can result from welding, especially if working on machinery broken down in the field. Balers also may cause problems in fields. Overheated bearings, slipping belts or foreign objects causing sparks can ignite this year's fine, dry hay. With the dry weather, all equipment needs to be in good shape. Fourth of July festivities also need to be done with care this year, as sparks from fireworks could mean disaster.
Summer also means moving lots of vehicles and farm machinery on the roads.
Machinery is getting bigger, taking up more of the road, and it' s harder to see around. In the United States, the majority of collisions involving with farm vehicles happen while passing. Also, many drivers just don't realize the pace at which slow equipment moves. Slow down and be alert. Unless it's the interstate or some other limited-access road, look out for machinery on roadways.