April 17, 2003

 

Toddlers and Tractors Don’t Mix

Each year, one or two toddlers are maimed or killed as a result of accidents that occur while riding in tractor or combine cabs, according to George Maher, North Dakota State University Extension Service ag safety specialist.

Maher defines this situation as a needless tragedy that is completely preventable. "There are no safe facilities for toddlers in a tractor cab," he cautions. "Some newer tractors and combines have a second seat as an advisor’s seat, but it is not intended for a youngster." In addition, toddlers should not be allowed to sit in the driver’s lap.

Toddlers are extremely active, and accidents happen in a split second. In a tense moment, supervision can be a real problem, as the driver’s attention is diverted to the machinery. This is when the toddler commonly opens the cab door and falls from the tractor.

When a child is run over, it not only impairs or ends one precious life, but also changes the lives of family members forever. Farm families need to coordinate the supervision of their children to assure that such tragedies do not occur.

Maher suggests keeping children at home under supervision, or in the company of family or childcare providers. Another possibility is rotating babysitting between neighbors. In farming communities, many neighbors share the same dilemma.

Maher believes that farming should be a family activity, but notes that children have plenty of time to help and learn in future years, provided necessary safety precautions are taken.

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Source: George Maher, (701) 231-8288, george.maher@ndsu.nodak.edu
Writer: Teresa Oe, (701) 231-8371, teresa.oe@ndsu.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.nodak.edu

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