Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. Where there is a farm, there is always a home nearby. Farm and home safety is often overlooked even though it is a key component to success.  Breathitt Co and Wolfe Co ANR and FCS Agents as well as Farm Bureaus collaborated for a joint Safety Program.

The Field Day was held at the UK Robinson Center for Appalachian Resources Sustainability in Breathitt County. New this year, participants had the option to select which track that they would like to complete for the evening. The Farm track consisted of Fire Safety (taught by Jackson Fire Dept.), hooking the proper equipment to the proper size tractor, loading and unloading equipment on trailers, and chain saw safety. The home track consisted of Fire Safety (taught by Jackson Fire Dept.), Food Safety, Radon Detection, and Safe Sleep as well as stop the bleed (a guide to quick aide for accidents). Attendees all received a goodie bag filled with various items to promote safety (i.e. ear plugs, safety glasses, smoke detector, etc.). All attendees also received a free meal served by Breathitt and Wolfe Co Farm Bureaus. 

Before door prizes were awarded, participants were surveyed to determine what impact was reached through the event. The following items were determined:

• 100% of attendees stated that they had learned something that will positively impact their farm and home safety
• 100% of people felt that they had a better understanding of home fires and how to react accordingly to them. 
• 100% of participants received a complimentary smoke detector for their homes.
• 100% of participants indicated that they will implement a safety technique that was demonstrated/taught at their homes and farms

With around 100 people in attendance, this event was a huge success. Safety techniques that were taught will hopefully prevent an accident in the coming time for all those in attendance. This partnership between Breathitt and Wolfe County Extension Offices, Breathitt and Wolfe County Farm Bureaus as well as the UK Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability made an impact in both communities and we look forward to growing and expanding its outreach in 2024!