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Be Prepared for Winter on the Farm | |
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By Kenda Lubeck
While many of us are still wondering what happened to summer, we find ourselves fervently preparing for the winter months and the cold that it inevitably brings. For farm owners and workers, this usually involves a long list of seasonal chores.
As with anything on the farm, safety plays a key role in why and how we prepare for winter. Preventing a situation, such as repairing an electrical outlet that doesn’t work, is much easier than reacting to a situation – needing that tractor and finding it won’t start because the plug wasn’t working.
Some things to check:
Be sure all equipment has been winterized.
- Winter oil in machinery, equipment and vehicles.
- Batteries are in good working order.
- Antifreeze is appropriate and topped up.
- Winter tires are on vehicles, particularly if you plan to tow or haul anything.
- All equipment and machinery lights are working properly.
Fix any lighting or electrical issues.
- Check all light fixtures and connections, particularly if they haven’t been used all summer.
- Turn on electric stock waterers to prevent them from freezing.
- Inspect and repair any damaged electrical outlets.
Repair any fencing now before the ground freezes or ice and snow accumulate. Make sure animals have adequate feed so they do not lean on the fencing and damage it.
Make sure items such as animal feed are easily accessible when the snow comes.
Remove or relocate any equipment, tools, debris, etc. that may hinder snow removal in the coming months.
Arrange for any training such as equipment operation or First Aid courses during the winter months.
Take notes and record any issues that could arise or be of help in the future such as recurring incidents or potential hazards that need attention. This could include faulty equipment, worn tools or items that need replacing.
Prepare for lack of sunlight when doing chores and jobs around the farm. This may mean adjusting your schedule or setting up more lighting in the yard or work area. As well, plan extra time for jobs in the winter.
Winter is a wonderful and enjoyable season; it just takes more time to get things done due to cold, slippery footing and the added bulk of extra clothing. A little preparation can go a long way to making farm chores safe and hassle-free this winter. |
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For more information about the content of this document, contact Kenda Lubeck.
This information published to the web on December 5, 2011.
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