With harvest season upon us, so is the need for harvest safety.
Lacombe County Reeve Paula Law says everyone, agricultural producers and not, should be aware of their surroundings.
She explained there is a short window of opportunity to get products off and long hours are to be expected for producers.
“Producers just need to be aware of when they’re moving equipment and when they’re on the road to be aware of all the traffic,” said Law. “If you have the opportunity pull over when it’s safe to do so to let traffic by.”
She also recommends producers take their time, make sure the vehicle has clean windows and the lights are on, as well as the warning lights and slow moving signs.
In terms of other road users, Law suggests leaving a little bit earlier to compensate for delays.
Be on the lookout for slow moving vehicles, take your time and don’t be in a hurry to pass, she continued.
Law also says drivers should pull over to let the producer by if they approach them on a narrow road.
“Make sure your lights are on, especially when it’s dusk, there can be lots of dust in the air and that low setting sun, the producers need to be able to see you also,” added Law.
Producers also need to practice safety off the road when actually harvesting their crops.
Law reminds producers to take their time, be prepared for the long hours and to a break when needed.
She says producers should take the time to stop, get out and walk around the piece of equipment if they have been in it for a few hours.
“I think everybody just needs to slow down and be aware of what’s going on in the countryside and then we’ll all have a safe and successful harvest,” said Law.