Agriculture continues to rank as one of the most dangerous occupations in North America. According to the National Safety Council, there were 703 deaths and 90,000 disabling injuries attributed to agriculture in 2005.

The theme for this year’s National Farm Safety and Health Week, Sept. 16-22, is, “It’s easier to bury a tradition than a child.” The theme comes from the Children’s Ag Safety Network (CASN). A network of Children’s Farm Safety organizations, CASN is committed to reducing children injuries and fatalities and has launched a national media campaign with a simple message: children younger than 12 years old should not be on or near tractors.

National Farm Safety & Health Week is an annual promotion from the National Safety Council commemorating the hard work and sacrifices of our nation’s farmers and ranchers. The 2007 event marks the 64th consecutive signing of a proclamation by a U.S. President, beginning with FDR in 1944.