Health Topics
Working outside has its benefits. When the sun is shining and the temperature is comfortable, it’s the best place to be. But we all know that there are many days when working outside in the elements is not pleasant.
Each season brings its own challenges. With snow and ice, the risk for slips, trips, and falls increases. Frostbite may be an issue when the cold is really strong. Spring is a busy time and can bring intense rain or lightning. Heat Related Illnesses increase with the heat of summer as does the risk for damaging tornadoes and hurricanes. Fall may see an end to the heat, but the business of bringing in crops and the onset of cooler weather can bring its own difficulties, too.
One of the best ways to manage working in the weather is to be prepared. Having a weather radio or alerts on your phone can help you stay aware of any unexpected changes. Making sure you wear layers and have options to dress warmer or cooler is also helpful. Drinking plenty of fluids is essential during the heat. It’s also important to have a plan for who you would contact in an emergency.
After weather events happen, it’s important to clean up safely. Check out these AgriSafe resources about Wildfire Health Threats and Responding to Flooding on Farms to see what you should be thinking about for your farm or ranch.
Page updated: July 2021
Weather Topics
Weather Resources
Co-written by Charlotte Halverson and Carey Portell Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and is related to repeated exposure to the sun, which causes damagingRead More
Tips for staying healthy and safe this summer
MedlinePlus and NIH offer lots of information online to help. We’ve summarized some helpful highlights to get you started. Sun Exposure and Your Skin Too much time in the sunRead More
Health Spotlight: Slips, Trips, and Falls
Every autumn, AgriSafe highlights the importance of preventing slips, trips, and falls as our agricultural workers are challenged by the cold, wind, and ice that comes with winter weather. While thisRead More