The problem

Logan County has a rich agricultural tradition. Grain production and other crops are viable in our county. With many kids living and working on the farm, we are dedicated to promoting safe operation and respect of farm equipment that is in large supply.

The educational program response

In 2023, we focused on ATV, tractor, animal, electrical, water, fire, mower, firearm, and chemical safety. Local community members including utility companies, school personnel, and first responders are involved in planning and implementing the program.

The participants/target audience

Each September, we host all 5^th grade students from Russellville and Logan County schools to participate in our Logan County Progressive Agriculture Safety Day. The students learn about safe practices on the farm and at home.

Other partners (if applicable)

We bring in volunteers from local businesses to be instructors at each station. They are experts in their field and are trained educators. In 2022, a 4-H and FFA alum had a serious ATV accident. He was able to come speak to the group about his accident. He expressed how what you have done 1,000 times can end differently on any given day. He was not wearing a helmet and had a head injury. He spoke to the youth about the importance of always wearing a helmet.

Program impact or participant response.

Students were asked, as a result of attending Safety Day, what are you going to do to be safer on the farm, ranch or at home? Students responded with:

1. “I will wear a helmet”
2. “I will not be outside while my dad is mowing the yard”
3. “I will wear a seatbelt”
4. “I will not drink things from a container without a label”
5. “I will know where to meet my parents if there is a fire”
6.  "I will carry a gun safely"

We had 369 students and 63 volunteers involved in this program. We will never know how many accidents were prevented though our safety day. If we can prevent one injury or save one life, our safety day has been a success.