Residents that live in areas where snow and ice are prevalent during the winter months are used to bundling up, braving bad roads and caring for animals even during the worst of blizzards. Montana Farm Bureau would like to remind everyone to be safety-minded while doing winter chores.
Staying safe in winter weather
By following a few safety tips, horse owners that live in areas where harsh winter conditions occur can avoid accidents and stay healthy.
“If you’re using an ATV, be extremely cautious,” says Les Graham, who handles the Montana Ag Safety Program. “You might think you have a smooth road, but there could be hidden lumps of frozen manure or mud that would cause you to lose control.”
The safety expert notes that when pulling a car out of ditch with a truck or tractor, approved towing straps are much safer than chains. “We’ve all heard those awful stories of the chain that broke, flew back and seriously hurt someone. There are synthetic straps available that will do a lot less harm if they break.”
In addition, it’s important to use care when feeding livestock. “This time of year, footing can be dicey, so take extra caution not to slip and fall under the hooves of your animals.
If you’re riding your horse, it’s wise to have it sharp-shod for the ice. It certainly doesn’t mean your horse won’t slip, but it’s an added precaution to help it have better footing,” Graham notes. “Livestock can be unpredictable, so be alert around them, especially because they may get aggressive during feeding.”
Finally, make sure you have winter gear stashed in your vehicle. “It’s worth repeating every year that a basic emergency kit should include blankets or sleeping bags, spare socks and gloves, a first aid kit, a candle and waterproof matches, water and high-calorie foods, a flashlight and a pocket knife.
Having a shovel and sand or kitty litter can help you if you get stuck,” Graham says. “I know people hear this over and over, but if you get stuck, don’t get out and walk. In most cases, you’re much safer remaining in your vehicle. Make sure your exhaust pipe isn’t blocked, and run the heater for 10 minutes every hour.”
“Using common sense during the winter is the best way to avoid a winter accident,” says Graham. “Don’t head off on foot during a blizzard, don’t try to drive a small car down a lane with obvious snow accumulation and make sure your gas tank is close to full.
Do wear warm clothes and do use sunscreen and eye protection. Before you head out the door, grab your cell phone and let someone know where you are heading, the route you are taking, and when you should arrive at your destination.”
“By following simple safety guidelines and dressing appropriately for the elements, everyone can stay a little bit safer this winter,” Graham concludes.
Edited news article - Montana Farm Bureau