Third-graders learn about farm safety

Third-graders from elementary schools across eastern New Mexico and West Texas spent part of Thursday learning about everyday dangers at the farm and ranch, and home and were given guidance on how to prevent them.

The 15th annual Progressive Agricultural Safety Day drew 586 participants from Dora, Elida, Farwell, Floyd, Friona, House, Logan, Melose, Portales and Texico elementary schools. Officials say they are expecting 900 Clovis students today.

"I really the enjoy the opportunity to bring kids in and introduce them to basic, functional safety tips that they can use everyday," said Patrick Kircher, Roosevelt County Agricultural Extension agent.

During the safety workshop, children learn about specific topics at different stations, including how to make a 911 call for help, lawnmower safety, household chemical safety, electrical and powerline safety, gun safety, safety when interacting with animals, water and fire safety, and all-terrain vehicle safety.

"The animal station was my favorite because I like animals and they're really cool, said Valencia Elementary student Toby Kokosenski. "I learned that snakes are poisonous and some are not. They taught us about what we need to do to not get hurt,"

The stations provide age-appropriate, hands-on activities, and students are divided into small groups, which allows for greater participation. The students also receive a T-shirt, pencil and Band-Aid dispenser for their involvement.

The teachers enjoy watching the children learn as well, and appreciate the usefulness of the information.

"This is a really good program," said Melanie Lee, a third-grade teacher at House Elementary School. "They can learn about a lot of issues that they can apply to their daily life, especially for our kids since we live in a rural area."

Volunteers serve as instructors, group leaders, safety officers and photographers, along with helping to organize the event.

"What's really neat about this program is that we're able to have such a community-wide involvement from multiple organizations," Kircher said.

Karen Stevenson, a school nurse at Texico, has been volunteering with the program since it began.

"I just enjoy how the children are having fun while they're learning about safety," Stevenson said.

Sponsored by the Progressive Agriculture Foundation and the Cooperative Extension Service, the safety days are held annually in Clayton, Clovis, Roswell and Santa Rosa.