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January 22, 2004 Farms Need an Emergency Team "Help, help! Dad’s caught in the auger!" can be the most chilling and un-nerving cry to be heard on a farm, according to George Maher, North Dakota State University Extension Service agriculture safety specialist. In 1994, North Dakota farmers and farm workers suffered more than 1300 farm injuries that were treated at a medical facility. Of those injuries, 440 were musculoskeltal injuries and 69 of the victims spent at least one day in a hospital. “Producers should be prepared because an injury can occur on their farms,” Maher says. “Every farm should have at least two people that are trained in first aid and CPR. Family members who are trained in first aid and CPR can improve the victim's chances of survival and speed the recovery. Recovery from an agricultural injury can be much easier if quality treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible in the first hour after the accident.” The first hour, also know as the golden hour, is quality time for first aid. “It is usually hard to think that a serious injury can happen on your farm, but it is even more agonizing to realize that ?I didn't know what to do' or 'I didn't want to do the wrong thing,’ so I didn?t do anything,” Maher says. “This does not help the victim and really adds to the risk of the victim not surviving.” When a course in first aid and CPR is offered locally, several family members should take it. In most areas of North Dakota it takes significant time for the rescue squad to get to the farm, Maher says. Treatment administered during that time can improve the chances of survival and speed the recovery time. First aid and CPR courses are offered frequently across the state. Check local newspapers or ask local rescue personnel about such courses. Most courses are offered at little cost or are free. “It is an excellent opportunity to gain those needed skills,” Maher says. “Even if you took a course several years ago, you still need the latest training. It’s important because a family member may someday need your help.” ### Source:
George Maher, (701) 231-8288, george.maher@ndsu.nodak.edu |
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North Dakota State University |
