One of the most important programs I give is a hazardous occupation course for teenagers. Agriculture is a family-based business, and children are around dangerous situations from a very young age. One way to make a situation less dangerous is education, learning what the dangers may be and how to avoid putting yourself in a position that has a greater likelihood of getting hurt.
On April 12 from 6-8:30 p.m. and also April 14 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Cottonwood Extension District in Great Bend will hold its annual Tractor Safety class for youth ages 13-18. This class is required for teens ages 14-16 that are planning to work on a farm other than their immediate relatives. It is encouraged for any youth that are going to be working around the farm or large machinery to also complete a tractor safety course. Farm accidents are the cause of 120,000 injuries a year and children are at a high danger when working on a farm or ranch. The 2-day course will cover the various risks that are on a farm as well as give young people the information they need to be safe when working. Cost is $15 and that covers the book, snacks and lunch on Saturday. Call the Extension office at 620-793-1910 to register for the class.
If you would like any more information about this opportunity for learning, please contact the Extension office for more information by calling 620-793-1910 or email me at aboor@ksu.edu.

Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Contact her by email at aboor@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.