By rdnewsNOW staff

Harvest safety reminders from Lacombe County

Aug 16, 2018 | 6:01 AM

LACOMBE COUNTY- Harvest season will start a bit earlier this year, and Lacombe County is reminding area producers, residents and visitors of their roles and responsibilities for safety during fall harvest operations.

Road safety is a big concern during harvest season.

With an earlier harvest anticipated, roads will be busier than normal because harvest operations will coincide with the end of the summer holiday season.

“Lacombe County is an agricultural community, and producers have a short window to complete the annual harvest,” emphasized Dion Burlock, Lacombe County Ag Fieldman. “Since starting this campaign in 2014, we have heard stories from both producers and drivers alike of unsafe driving during harvest season.”

The fact is large slow moving equipment utilize County roads in the fall season.

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Drivers need to plan ahead and schedule extra time into their travel plans to compensate for delays which may be caused by harvest operations.

Here are some harvest safety tips from Alberta Agriculture & Forestry:

– Ensure safe transport of equipment on public roadways.

– Be aware of motorists.

– Follow all rules of the road.

– Ensure all lights and reflectors are in place and good working order. A slow-moving vehicle emblemshould be in place and visible from the rear.

– Return equipment to transport mode. This makes it as narrow as possible.

– Check your route before transport to ensure equipment fits safely under power lines and overbridges or culverts that need to be crossed.

Another aspect of harvest safety that Lacombe County wants to highlight this year is the importance of fatigue management.

Creating health, wellness and safety measures into a harvest plan will go a long way in injury and accident prevention.

“It’s ok to take a break, to rest, and to unwind during harvest season,” explained Lacombe County Reeve, Paula Law. “Fatigue is a very serious risk and is a form of impairment for people. We want everyone to get home safely – so take the time to plan ahead, check your equipment, prepare healthy meals, and take care of your body.” 

(Lacombe County – Gary McKinnon)