Are Kentucky Farmers Prepared for Farm-Related Emergencies?

Farming is a hazardous occupation with a high incidence of fatal and non-fatal injuries. Little is known about the preparedness of Kentucky farmers to respond to farm emergencies. The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge, preparation, and concerns of Kentucky farmers relative to being prepared to take appropriate action in the event of a farm emergency.

For this descriptive study, a 36-item questionnaire was used to assess the farmer's education and training, access to supplies/equipment to deal with farm emergencies, and their concern regarding emergency preparedness. Data were collected from a sample of 115 farmers attending an agricultural related conference or meeting in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

A majority of the farmers reported: 1) limited CPR/first aid training, 2) minimal access to first aid kits/fire extinguishers on the farm, and 3) concern that EMS could not locate their farms. A large majority of the farmers reported use of a smartphone with a GPS locator; however, some farms were reported to be without cell service. The farmers were interested in attending training on emergency preparedness if training sessions were scheduled at a convenient time.

Information obtained from this survey will guide the development of a multi-component community-based program to prepare farmers to take appropriate action and receive quick emergency medical services (EMS) in farm emergencies. New community partnerships will be established to identify, implement, and evaluate creative strategies to ensure that Kentucky farmers are prepared for emergency events.