In light of it being National Farm Safety and Health Week, Iowa State Extension Farm Management Specialist Shane Ellis has some tips for local residents who live near farms in Guthrie County.

One of the biggest dangers with agriculture is driving on rural roadways where large farm machinery travels at slow speeds.  And as this machinery gets larger and larger with today’s technological advances, travel hazards are only becoming more prevalent.

Ellis has a simple tip to avoid trouble, but one he says it isn’t followed nearly enough: be patient.

“Yes, the farm machinery is not going to run down the road at 70 miles per hour or even 55.  The top speed for most tractors is around 20 miles per hour.  You’re going to have to have some patience; don’t take a risk that isn’t worth it.  I guarantee that being a little bit later to your final location is just fine.  Go ahead and use a little extra time, arrive safely.”

Ellis says one reason why many car accidents are seen on rural highways is because older farm machinery isn’t equipped with turn signals.  He hears of accidents frequently involving equipment making left-hand turns.

“That seems to be one where the machinery is slowing down, folks maybe are getting impatient and see an opportunity where they can jet around just as the machinery is trying to turn.  Always regard and watch what that operator is most likely doing.  If they’re coming up to a road entry into a field, anticipate that they may be turning in at that point.”

To hear our full conversation with Ellis about National Farm Safety and Health Week, tune in to today Let’s Talk Guthrie County during the 9am, noon and 5’clock hours on 107.9 FM, KKRF.