(ND Ag Connection) – Injuries that take place on the farm can be unique, requiring immediate care before help can arrive.

“If a traumatic injury occurs on the farm, such as an amputation or serious burn, understanding how to effectively manage traumatic injuries on the farm can mean the difference between life and death” says Katelyn Landeis, North Dakota State University Extension agent in Grand Forks County. “Depending on where the injury occurs, on your farm or in the field, you may have to wait until help arrives. Having a well-equipped farm first-aid kit can offer essential supplies and resources to address a diverse range of injuries promptly and effectively.”

For the second year in a row, Landeis teamed up with NDSU Extension farm and ranch safety coordinator Angie Johnson to develop a program for farmers, their families and employees to build a farm first-aid kit and practice using items found in the kit. The session will take place during the International Crop Expo on Feb. 22 from noon to 1 p.m. in meeting rooms 6,7,8 and 9 at the 50-yard line outside of the arena of the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

“This program empowers farmers and farmworkers to be prepared for emergencies and know how to respond effectively to various types of injuries that may occur on the farm,” says Johnson. “By crafting your own kit, you walk away with the knowledge and readiness of administering aid, knowing firsthand what tools you have, as well as the education and confidence to use items found in the kit to make a difference in the case of a severe injury or potentially save someone’s life.”

The workshop includes several stations led by NDSU Extension and area healthcare providers. Topics covered include:

Stop the Bleed mini session – Altru Health Ambulance Team

Treating burns on the farm – Altru Health Ambulance Team

Slips, trips and falls; how to use a splint – Altru Health Ambulance Team

Handling amputated body parts – NDSU Extension

At the completion of this program, participants will receive a complete farm first-aid kit they can place in the tractor or farm shop – a location everyone knows, so they can find the kit in a time of need.