National Farm Safety week this year coincides with the beginning of harvest season in many parts of the Northern Plains. Iowa State University Extension Ag Engineer Kris Kohls says agriculture remains the most dangerous industry in the United States and Harvest time can be difficult as farmers are putting in more hours than normal.

He says the general public needs to be aware that the maximum speed of a tractor is generally 25 miles per hour and that it’s critical to be patient when passing farm equipment because often times they make wide turns.

Kohls says the most common type of farm accidents in the fall involve roll overs and people colliding with large farm equipment that’s become even wider and more difficult to get around.

Kohls says it’s important producers take care of themselves during harvest, to keep nourished and hydrated in order to stay alert and hopefully avoid any mishaps.