As National Farm Safety and Health Week comes to a close, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is urging Iowans to prioritize safety during this year’s harvest season. Naig reinforces the importance of being cautious in the field, around the farm, and on the road, as large equipment becomes more prevalent statewide. He says, “As we enter this busy harvest season, I’m urging everyone to keep safety top of mind. There will be a lot of large equipment in the fields and on the road at all hours of the day and night, so I encourage everyone to slow down, show patience and give each other some grace. Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and productive harvest season for everyone in the field, around the farm and on the road.” Naig offers safety tips for drivers and farmers, such as maintaining a safe distance from farm equipment and avoiding distractions while driving. Farmers are encouraged to inspect machinery, wear protective gear, and keep emergency equipment nearby. Additionally, Naig highlighted the importance of mental health and urged farmers to manage stress and seek support if needed, especially during the hardest running time of the year. Iowans can access mental health resources through the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985 and various state agricultural safety programs.
