Children who live on farms are at greater risk of injury or death than adults. Common hazards include drowning in dams, tanks and creeks, injury from guns or chemicals, accidents with tractors, motorbikes, other machinery, falls and animals. Older children can be taught farm safety, but still need to be supervised at all times.
Children and animals
Children get great enjoyment from farm life and naturally gravitate towards animals. But animals can cause injuries and children need to be taught the dangers of being around livestock and other animals.
Farm animals cause injuries to children each year, some of which can be fatal. If children care for livestock, make sure they know to always be watchful and teach them about animal behaviour.
Children on farms also need to know how to behave around working dogs and be alert for snakes. Horse riding causes quite a few injuries too, so make sure they ride horses appropriate for their age and always wear a helmet.
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Last reviewed:
09-September-2011
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