Use extra caution working on inclines and hillsides.
Stay off of slopes too steep for safe operation.
often its better to back up on inclines and hillsides.
This gives you much more control in preventing roll overs.
Likewise, always back out of holes and ditches
When you have to traverse -- or go sideways -- on a hillside be sure to
slow down and avoid quick turns, which could lead to a rollover type accident.
Always keep the gears engaged.
Avoid the temptation to go faster by popping
it into neutral.
The tractor can easily take off on you and become
unmanageable.
When working around ditches and culverts the rule of thumb is: "Stay
as far away as the ditch is deep".
For example, if the ditch is five feet deep, come no closer than five feet to
the edge with the tractor.
And always keep an eye out for utility hazards.
UtiIity bundIes sometimes reside in the corner of a fieId, Iike
this.
Stay clear of these.
Likewise, keep an eye out for Iowhanging overhead power Iines.
Contact with these Iines can Iead to instant
eIectrocution.
Go slow at row ends.
They tend to be busy places with other workers, vehicles and equipment.
Never drive any kind of front end loader or scoop with the bucket held high.
Doing this raises the tractor' s center of gravity even higher and
makes it easy to tip over.
Slow way down when moving a full bucket or
scoop.
When you are ready to stop working and park your tractor, be sure to lower
the implements to the ground first.
Shut the engine off - especially if you are going to clear a clog or jam in the equipment.
Be sure to set the parking brake before climbing down from the machine.
There are a couple of simple rules to remember when refueling your tractor.
These rules are simple, but very important.
First, NO SMOKING.
Keep open flames and smoking materials well away from gas and diesel fumes.
Secondly, shut the engine off allowing pressure in the tank to reduce before
putting fuel in the tank.
And thirdly, look for leaks or spills around the gas tank and filler cap.
A leaky fuel tank can lead to a nasty
fire.
Whether you are just moving gear from point A to point B, or working with a
power take-off device towing needs to be done correctly in order to be done
safely.
Hitch objects to the drawbar only.
Hitching elsewhere destabilizes the tractor.
If the implement requires a three point hitch, be sure to follow the
manufacturer's instructions closely.
Know how much ballast is needed to balance your rig and take the time to
add the right amount.
Handling will be much smoother and safer.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines if you need more information.
When crossing side slopes or inclines avoid sharp
uphill turns.
Which can result in a side roll over.
And when towing liquids go slowly and brake carefully.
Liquids can slosh around destabilizing your tractor and possibly
leading to a side roll over.
And never hitch to an point on the tractor other than the draw bar.
this can alter the handling of a tractor making it much less stable.
Inclines also effect handling.
Rear Axle turnovers are a real hazard on steep terrain.
Thank you for taking the time to watch, and hopefully learn a bit about
safe operating techniques.
Tractors are powerful machines that can help you get more work done in a day than
farmers in the horse-drawn days could get done in a week.
But they must be respected and used with caution.
Remember, only allow properly trained and responsible drivers
to operate the tractors.
Always read the manufacturer's manual before driving any unfamiliar model
tractor.
Take time to do a pre-operation check every time you use your machine.
Never bypass-start your tractor.
And never allow extra riders -- tractors are designed as
one person machines only.
Use extra care when attaching PTO devices or hitching to tow anything.
Remember, "hitch low, and go slow".
Securely fasten your seat belt on ROPs equipped tractors.
This one step alone has saved many lives.
Following the safety tips contained in this program, will help you
become a better and safer tractor operator.