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Child & Youth Safety

Name: WSPS
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Educating children who live on or visit farms is key to keeping this vulnerable young population safe

Our agriculture team and rural volunteers believe there’s nothing quite like growing up on the farm and in a rural community. It’s a unique experience, but not one without its challenges as the farm is not only a home, but also place to work and play.

Keeping your Children Safe from Hazards on the Farm

While growing up on the farm can open children to many enjoyments, they are also exposed to a great many hazards. From activities like horse riding and ATV use to farm hazards such as machinery, chemicals and livestock, children need to understand the basics of farm safety and that the farm as a whole is not a safe playground.

Our team understands the importance of educating children from a young age and through our partnership with likeminded organizations we deliver programs like Stop • Think • Act which has a focus on children and youth.

Resources to help keep children safe on the farm

Progressive Agriculture Foundation

The Progressive Agriculture Foundation provides education, training and resources to make farm, ranch and rural life safer and healthier for all children and their families and communities.

The Progressive Agriculture Safety Day Program, which WSPS supports through our rural volunteers, is the largest rural safety and health education program for children in North America. Through the program, children and parents participate in an engaging, day-long event in their community which includes a series of interactive stations focused on a variety of safety topics.

Safety Days take place in over 20 Ontario communities and we’re always looking for more to become Safety Day hosts.

Learn More

Websites on Child and Youth Safety on the Farm

There are a host of websites available to help guide you and your children on farm safety:

Childhood Agricultural Safety Network | A coalition of organizations that work together to help keep children safe on the farm.

Elmer the Safety Elephant | Elmer the Safety Elephant Program from the Canada Safety Council.

EquiMania | Youth education presented by Equine Guelph.

4-H Ontario | 4-H Ontario has learning opportunities for young people 6-21 on topics including agriculture, safety, life skills and more.

Featured Resources:

How Does Safety Rate On Your Farm - Family Farm Safety Checklist?

Staying on top of COVID-19 risks: How well is your farm protected?

Stop Think Act Program - Farm Safe, Not Lucky