Saskatchewan hosts farm safety days for children and youth
Farm safety is a growing priority in Saskatchewan, especially for children and youth. The province’s Progressive Agriculture Safety Days, held every year, teach students how to stay safe in farming environments.
These events are hosted by the Saskatchewan Association of Agricultural Societies and Exhibitions (SAASE) and supported by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA).
Each year, around 500 volunteers from across the province contribute their time to organize about 15 Safety Day events, reaching approximately 5,000 students. These one-day programs focus on age-appropriate safety lessons related to rural health and farm life.
"We're lucky to have so many dedicated agricultural society volunteers throughout the province who work on this and recognize how important it is to teach our kids about safety," said Glen Duck of SAASE. "Agricultural societies have for long been gathering places for people and have always done a lot of work as far as agricultural education is concerned, and they continue to be the heart of the communities they serve."
The program began in 2012 after a discussion with Saskatchewan’s agriculture minister revealed a lack of farm safety education for youth. Today, it continues to grow, thanks to flexibility that lets each community tailor their event. Topics vary by region—from bear trap safety in the north to machinery awareness in other areas.
As part of Kids FarmSafe Week, a national colouring contest also invites children aged 3 to 13 to express farm safety through art. The contest runs from May 6 to May 30, 2025. Winners receive a $25 Visa gift card and BASF swag, with artwork possibly featured online.
Young artists can submit entries by email or direct message through CASA’s social media. It’s a fun and creative way to promote safety awareness in Canadian agriculture.
Photo Credit: CASA-Kids-FarmSafe-Week