Loading...
The Rural Voice, 1991-05, Page 37ADVICE DON'T FARM INA HURRY Spring brings out more than green grass and colourful flowers on Ontario farms. For farmers, the warmer temper- atures and longer days mean the equip- ment comes out. There is only so much time to get the crops into the ground — the so-called "planting window." "At this time of year there is always the increased risk of accidents on the farm, partly due to people in a hurry," explains Stephen Bernard, manager, product training, John Deere Limited. "When it's time to plant and the weather starts to co-operate, some people get the feeling there is only so much time before the next storm or extended wet period, and they start taking shortcuts,." Taking shortcuts — not taking the time to work safely — increases the risk of accidents. Bernard offers some simple thoughts to keep in mind as farm- ing gets into full swing: Read the operator's manual, espe- cially the safety section. Follow the precautions in the manual and the safety decals on the machine. Before the weather becomes favour- able for field work, prepare your equip- ment. Make sure all safety shields and guards are in place. Make sure all equipment operators are trained in all machinery operations and safety features. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, especially when handling chemicals. Use "slow moving" vehicle em- blems and proper warning lights when transporting equipment. If you have to work alone, let some- one know where you are at all times. Have someone check on you periodi- cally. When you work long days, take more breaks. As fatigue sets in, the chances for an accident increase. Keep children away from machin- ery. A child's curiosity and inexperi- ence can lead to an accident around machinery. Avoid the rush — especially during the rush scasons of planting and harvest- ing. Stop the machine if you have to adjust or lubricate it. Stop and think; Aircraft spraying by JIM'S FLYING SERVICE LTD. All aerial spraying, seeding, fertilizing • No crop damage • Wheat & grain ripen evenly • No ground compaction • All applications guaranteed • Fully licenced by D.O.T. & M.O.E. "EVERY CROP SPRAYED LIKE OUR OWN." For fast service and 25 seasons of agricultural flying. BOOK NOW by calling Seaforth - 527-1606 Tillsonburg - 842-3898 HaS BI-FOLDWHEEL RAKE 8 -wheel - 3 positions for raking widths of 12' 6", 15', 17' 2" 12 -wheel - 3 positions for raking widths of 19', 21' 6", 24' 16 -wheel - 6 positions for raking widths of 24' 6", 25' 4", 28', 28' 6", 31', & 31' 6" Windrow widths adjustable — 40" - 68" Make easier work of handling hay! PRICED FROM $4881:00 (Includes tires, hyd. lift, & gauge wheels) For more information and the name of your closest dealer, please contact: *farm equip"N"1 •I.Iribul•rp ROBERT H. LANING & SONS LTD. ONTARIO QUEBEC MARITIMES ROBERT H. LANING & SONS LTD. Waterford, Ontal io NOE 11/0 519-443-8601 MAY 1991 33