Harvest Time: Safety and Insurance Essentials

Daniel Martin
Sep 23
1 min read

Harvest Smart. Stay Safe with Citizens Alliance Agency.

Hello everyone, it’s Daniel Martin – an agent here at Citizens Alliance Agency (CAA).

As harvest season kicks into high gear, it’s a time of intense activity and long hours on the farm. Amid the rush, it's vital to keep safety and insurance top of mind. Here's a quick rundown of what every farmer should consider.

1. Prioritize Safety

Harvest time is one of the most dangerous periods in agriculture. Fatigue, large equipment, and tight schedules can create serious risks.

Slow down: Rushing increases the chance of accidents.
Stay visible: Use proper lighting and reflective gear, especially during early mornings or late evenings.
Train everyone: Ensure all workers are trained on equipment and safety protocols.
Take breaks: Fatigue leads to mistakes. Rest reduces risk.

2. Equipment Matters

Before harvest begins:

Inspect all machinery: Check for worn parts, fluid levels, brakes, and tires.
Use guards and shields: Keep all safety features in place and functional.
Have fire extinguishers ready: Especially during dry conditions when dust and debris can ignite.

3. Insurance Check-Up

Your insurance should be as ready as your equipment.

Review your policy: Make sure your machinery, buildings, and crop insurance are up to date.
Report changes: Have you bought new equipment or changed acreage? Notify your insurer.
Liability coverage: Ensure you're protected in case someone is injured on your property.
Crop insurance deadlines: Make sure you’ve met all reporting and documentation deadlines.