Farmers in Meirionnydd have recently come together to discuss farm safety and prevention of rural crime.
The event, organised by the Farmers’ Union of Wales Meirionnydd branch, was held on Thursday November 9 and was hosted by Robin Lewis at Cefn Creuan Isaf, Rhydymain.
Ffermio presenter Alun Edwards, who was joined by Daltons ATVs, Lampeter and DH Jones, Bala, gave a presentation on best practice when using ATVs and showed how unstable they can become if driven carelessly.
FUW Meirionnydd CEO Huw Jones said: “It was important to us to show how dangerous four wheel bikes can be if they are handled incorrectly and it was good for us to see first hand what ‘best practice’ involves.
"Alun also showed us the importance of keeping ATVs well maintained, serviced and routinely checked paying particular attention to tyre pressures, brakes, throttle etc.”
Farmers further discussed how to reduce injury when handling cattle, reducing risks when working at heights and using chemicals safely.
Cefn Creuan Isaf has in the past been the victim of several thefts and was therefore glad to welcome PC Dewi Rhys Evans from the North Wales Police Rural Crime Team, who gave various examples of good practice for rural crime prevention.
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peaking after the event Geraint Davies, FUW Meirionnydd County Chairman, said: “ I would like to thank everyone who has been helping to make today’s event such as success.
“Every year rural crime costs millions of pounds and causes untold anxiety to farmers and rural businesses. Today’s information event offered a great insight into how farmers and those living in rural areas can help themselves. We know that the majority of thefts from farms are opportunistic, in that the thieves see what is available and easy to take.
“The advice to farmers is clear: take basic precautions such as removing keys from machinery and quad bikes and ensure tools are locked away when not used. Also padlocking gates can be a good deterrent as well as CCTV.
“In terms of farm safety we remain committed to highlighting how dangerous farming can be. Everybody knows somebody who has been injured or killed in an accident. The fact is that farmers often take risks but farm safety is a lifestyle, not a slogan. I’m glad that so many local farmers were present here today to see first hand what they can do to keep safe on farm. If one small accident can be avoided thanks to today’s event than it was certainly a success.”