YOU AND YOUR FARM

Farming is always a dangerous occupation and it is even more so when extremes of weather arrive. Farmers should plan in order to minimise the effects of extreme hot weather on your farm and your family.

• always tell someone when and where you are going out on the farm, and for how long you will be gone.
• wear suitable clothing and appropriate personal protective equipment (even if it is uncomfortable in hot weather).
• reduce your risk of skin cancer by protecting your skin from uv rays, particularly between april and september.
• carry a charged mobile phone and drinking water.

• children should always be supervised on farms.
• visitors (including family relatives) may not be familiar with a farm environment and should be accompanied when out on the farm.

• ensure your animals have sufficient reserves of water and fodder at all times.
• ensure your animals have sufficient shelter/shade.
• be mindful of the weather conditions when transporting animals.
• have a plan to deal with a power outage.

You can get more information from here.

The department of agriculture has a dedicated helpline and email address to report incidents of animal cruelty:

• animal welfare helpline 01 607 2379 or 0761 064 408.
• email - animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie

Get a copy of the booklet “farm well....farm safely” from the esb networks website. It tells you all you need to know about using electric equipment on your farm:

• special regulations apply to the connection and use of generators.
• the connection must be installed by a qualified electrician.
• ESB must be notified of proposed operation of a generator.
• incorrect connection can cause a ‘back-feed’ posing a risk to yourself, other consumers and maintenance staff.

• don’t let anyone inexperienced use machinery.
• ensure that equipment/machinery has been serviced properly and is in good working order.
• be careful when using equipment which you may not have used for some time.
• do not “risk it” - if you do not know how to use the equipment get someone to advise you or find out how to use it safely.
• particular care is needed while using chainsaws - see the booklet.

“safe working with timber and chainsaws” on the HSA website