A Progressive Agriculture Safety Day will be held at the International Agri-Center in Tulare from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 3 for local third graders. The event is hosted by the International Agri-Center in conjunction with the Progressive Agriculture Foundation.

"Children often see farm and livestock operations as playgrounds, but these facilities and equipment can be dangerous," said Jerry Sinift, CEO of the International Agri-Center. "Our community relies on agriculture, and we have a responsibility to teach local children about maintaining a healthy respect for farm hazards," added Sinift.

Each year, many children are killed or injured on America's farms and ranches. The event will teach rural children how to prevent injuries and reduce the risk of farm related incidents. During the safety day, children will participate in interactive activities that reinforce the importance of taking responsibility for their own safety, respecting parents' safety rules and sharing safety tips with their family and friends.

More than 250 third graders from Palo Verde, Oak Valley, St. Aloysius and Roosevelt Elementary schools will participate in the day-long event that will feature hands-on demonstrations. Participants will learn lifesaving first aid techniques and reveal the hidden hazards of farm surroundings. Demonstrations focus on farm hazards associated with: heavy equipment, water, fire and animal safety.

Supporters of the event include: Simplot, Tulare Kiwanis, Farm Credit West, Tulare County Dairywomen and Tulare County Farm Bureau's ag education committee.

11.01.2011